Emery silent on Watkins absence amid Al-Hilal links

Watkins left out of Villa squad as Saudi move looms, Emery says 'ask his agent'.

O. Watkins

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What happened. Ollie Watkins was omitted from Aston Villa's squad for their 4-0 defeat at Brighton, with Unai Emery refusing to confirm or deny that the striker refused to play amid interest from Al-Hilal.

• Watkins considering move to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
• Emery said: 'This question is for him … I answer only with silence'.
• Villa had injury crisis with Brian Madjo and Tammy Abraham unavailable.

“This question is for him … I answer only with silence”

— Unai Emery

Watkins' future at Villa uncertain as Saudi club circles, with Emery deflecting questions.

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O. WatkinsAston VillaUnai Emery

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'I can answer only with my silence': Aston Villa boss Unai Emery hints Ollie Watkins refused to play for club in Brighton drubbing - as England striker's move to Saudi Arabia looms