Watkins Returns to Training Ahead of Villa’s FA Cup Quarter-Final
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has been cleared to resume full training with the squad, giving fans a boost ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final clash against Preston North End. Watkins had been sidelined since the international break after picking up an injury, but he has now rejoined his teammates on the training pitch.
The news comes as a welcome relief for Villa fans, who were starting to get anxious about the prospect of facing the Lilywhites without their star striker. Watkins has been an integral part of Villa’s attack this season, scoring 14 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions. His absence has been keenly felt, with Villa struggling to find the net without him.
However, with Watkins back in training, Villa fans can now look forward to seeing him feature in the FA Cup quarter-final. The 28-year-old has been working hard to get fit, and his return to training is a testament to his dedication and professionalism.
Watkins’ injury was sustained before the international break, and he was initially ruled out of Villa’s warm-weather camp in Dubai. The club had taken a strong squad to the Middle East for a training camp, but Watkins was left behind to focus on his recovery.
However, it seems that Watkins has made rapid progress, and he has now been cleared to return to full training. His participation in the FA Cup quarter-final is still uncertain, but it’s likely that he will be given every opportunity to prove his fitness before the match.
Watkins’ return to training is a significant boost for Villa, who are looking to make a deep run in the FA Cup. The club has won the competition once before, back in 1959, and they are eager to add to their trophy cabinet.
Villa’s FA Cup campaign has been impressive so far, with the team beating Premier League opponents West Ham and Southampton to reach the quarter-finals. They will face a tough test against Preston North End, who have also been in impressive form in the competition.
Preston North End reached the quarter-finals by beating Championship opponents Swansea City and then Premier League team Tottenham Hotspur. They will be looking to cause an upset against Villa, and Watkins’ return to training will undoubtedly give them something to think about.
Watkins’ return to training is also a welcome relief for Villa manager Steven Gerrard, who has been without his star striker for several weeks. Gerrard has been keen to stress the importance of Watkins’ fitness, and he will be relieved to see him back on the training pitch.
“We’re delighted to see Ollie back in training,” Gerrard said in a recent interview. “He’s been working hard to get fit, and we’re looking forward to seeing him back on the pitch. He’s a vital part of our team, and we’re glad to have him back.”
Watkins’ return to training is a significant development in the build-up to the FA Cup quarter-final. Villa fans will be eagerly awaiting news on his participation in the match, and they will be hoping that he can lead the team to a win.
In conclusion, Watkins’ return to training is a major boost for Aston Villa ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final. The striker has been working hard to get fit, and his participation in the match is still uncertain. However, his return to training is a significant development, and Villa fans will be eagerly awaiting news on his participation in the match.
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