Emery reveals Watkins apology as striker seals Villa departure

Aug 28 : Aston Villa boss Unai Emery confirmed Ollie Watkins' impending departure and revealed the striker had apologised for making himself unavailable for the club's Premier League opener, saying he became emotional as he said goodbye to Villa's record scorer in the competition.The England forward is set to complete a £50-million ($67 million) transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal according to British media reports, with Villa poised to sign Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson as his replacement.Watkins was absent from Villa's 4-0 opening-day Premier League thrashing by Brighton & Hove Albion.Watkins leaves as Villa's record Premier League scorer with 91 goals and 108 in all competitions since arriving from Brentford for £28 million in 2020. Speaking on Friday, Emery said Watkins had ac