Just days after shining on the pitch, Ollie Watkins has found himself sidelined.
The Aston Villa forward, who impressed fans with a goal in England’s 3–0 victory over Wales, has now been ruled out due to injury.
What looked like a harmless collision during the match turned out to be enough to send him back home from the England camp.
A Promising Night Cut Short
Watkins had every reason to celebrate after netting a quick goal against Wales.
His sharp finish inside the first ten minutes was a clear sign of his growing confidence in the national side.
Unfortunately, his evening took a painful turn just before half-time when he collided with the goalpost while trying to connect with a cross from Elliot Anderson.
Despite initially playing on, he was forced to limp off and was replaced by Marcus Rashford for the second half.
Official Update from the FA
By Monday morning, England fans received confirmation of their fears.
The Football Association released a statement saying that Watkins had not recovered from the knock he suffered during the Wales match and would therefore miss the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Latvia.
“Ollie Watkins has been ruled out of England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Latvia,” the FA confirmed, adding that the striker had already returned to Aston Villa for recovery.
That leaves England with a 22-man squad traveling to Riga.
Tuchel’s Selection Dilemma Deepens
Watkins’ absence has put England boss Thomas Tuchel in a tricky position.
Harry Kane, the team’s captain and main striker, also missed the Wales match due to a foot injury sustained with Bayern Munich.
Although Tuchel remains optimistic that Kane will return in time for the Latvia clash, the injury situation has undeniably caused some tension within the camp.
“Harry will miss the game,” Tuchel explained before the Wales fixture.
“It was too painful to kick a ball, but we’re convinced he’ll be ready for Latvia.”
A Painful Blow but No Lasting Damage
After the Wales game, Tuchel reassured fans that Watkins’ injury wasn’t serious.
“He’s okay,” the German coach said.
“It was very painful when he crashed into the post, but there’s no serious harm done.”
However, the England medical team took no chances, opting to send Watkins home to ensure he recovers fully before returning to club duty.
Potential Line-Up Without Watkins and Kane
If Kane doesn’t pass his final fitness test, Tuchel will need to reshuffle once again.
Anthony Gordon, who filled in as a makeshift striker against Wales, might be called upon to lead the line.
Other options include Jarrod Bowen and Rashford, both of whom have shown flashes of attacking brilliance in recent games.
Watkins’ Missed Opportunity
For Watkins, the timing couldn’t have been worse.
The match against Wales had given him a rare chance to stake his claim as a regular starter, especially with Kane unavailable.
His goal showcased his sharp instincts and reliability in front of goal — a reminder of his potential despite a slow start to the season with Aston Villa, where he’s scored only once in ten games.
England’s Focus Shifts to Latvia
With qualification for the 2026 World Cup within reach, the focus now turns to Latvia.
England could officially secure their place with a win, but they’ll have to do it without one of their in-form forwards.
Tuchel’s tactical adaptability will once again be tested as he decides whether to risk Kane or rely on his younger attacking talents.
Looking Ahead
Watkins’ injury is a setback, but it’s also a reminder of how fine the margins are at the top level.
The 29-year-old will return to Aston Villa to continue his recovery, hoping to rediscover his form in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, England’s supporters will keep their fingers crossed that both Watkins and Kane recover quickly — because with major tournaments looming, every player’s fitness counts.