Unai Emery issues Ollie Watkins and Ezri Konsa Aston Villa injury updates before Newcastle clash

Unai Emery has confirmed Ollie Watkins and Ezri Konsa are both available for selection against Everton despite injury and fitness concerns throughout the international break.

Watkins returned from England duty early to undergo tests and rehabilitation for a small issue he had been carrying during the opening three Premier League fixtures. The striker, who contributed 19 goals and 13 assists in the English top tier last term, is now back to fitness.

Konsa hobbled off during England’s narrow 2-0 win over Finland after feeling some pain just after the hour mark. The versatile defender was soon given the all clear, though, and a scan confirmed there was no lasting damage that would impact his Villa duties.

“He is progressing, getting better, feeling better and is in the squad. For tomorrow, he will be available to play,” Emery said of Watkins. Meanwhile, on Konsa, Emery added: “The players coming back after playing with their national team, they are in the squad and we don’t have big issues.”

Both updates come as a huge relief to Villa fans and Fantasy Premier League players alike as Watkins and Konsa are vital cogs in Emery’s system. It’s expected that both will start against Everton, while the likes of Jhon Duran are likelier to make an impact off the bench.