Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has dropped from the national team with a minor injury. England’s attacking strength has suffered a hit due to this.
The forward will now miss Saturday’s World Cup qualification match against Andorra. He will also miss next week’s friendly against Senegal.
What Watkins’ absence implies for England?
The Three Lions won’t summon a replacement despite the setback. Thomas Tuchel will keep on training with a squad of 25 members. For the Villans, Watkins has always been a steady presence.
Last season, he scored 17 goals in 54 games, which helped Villa ended sixth in the Premier League. His retreat narrows Southgate’s front-end choices.
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Among three forwards nominated with captain Harry Kane and in-form Ivan Toney was Watkins.
Who takes charge in his absence?
In England’s forward line, Toney starts to take even more importance. The striker has been called up for the first time since playing in the Euro 2024 final.
His shift to Saudi side Al-Ahli has not slowed him down. Winning the Asian Champions League, Toney has scored 30 goals in 44 games.
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This shape has captured the notice of the national team’s gaffer. Before the World Cup of next year, he is evaluating all possibilities and looking for a reliable Kane understudy.
What next for the Three Lions?
The Wembley Stadium heavyweights will next concentrate on the qualifiers without Watkins. Their duel against Andorra will check their forward depth.
Everyone will be looking at the team’s captain and the former Brentford striker to spearhead the charge. The 29-year-old still gives top priority to recovery and a return to complete fitness.
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