Unai Emery faces criticism after Ollie Watkins injured in win over Salzburg

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins limped off with a hamstring injury during Thursday's Europa League tie with RB Salzburg at Villa Park, prompting criticism of manager Unai Emery for starting him in what many viewed as a largely inconsequential match. Watkins pulled up while chasing a through ball in the first half, grimacing and clutching his hamstring.

He tried to carry on for another 12 minutes but was eventually substituted and replaced by Morgan Rogers. After the match Emery sought to downplay the problem but admitted Watkins was a major doubt for the weekend, saying: "He felt something, but not a lot. We will test him. Hopefully, we are thinking that is not a lot.

I don't know if he will be available for Sunday." Pundits questioned Emery's selection given Villa had already secured a top-eight finish in the Europa League group and a bye to the last 16. TNT Sports co-commentator Martin Keown said: "In retrospect, he should've been rested tonight." The selection was further criticised because loanee Harvey Elliott, recently frozen out to avoid triggering a mandatory purchase clause, started the game while Watkins was also risked.

The injury complicates Villa's plans with squad depth under strain.

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