Ollie Watkins Supports Doku's Decision for Family First

KANSAS CITY, Missouri, June 21: England striker Ollie Watkins defended Belgium winger Jeremy Doku, who wishes to leave the World Cup for the birth of his first child. Watkins, a father of two, argued that family takes precedence over football, dismissing criticism from L'Equipe presenter France Pierron, who called childbirth a "disgusting moment."

Watkins countered her remarks, emphasizing the unique blessing of welcoming a first child. He stated, "There's a lot of times where you're away from family... to miss that would be tough." He believes players like Doku should be free to prioritize personal matters.

Doku, a key member of the Belgian team, hopes to attend the birth during the World Cup quarter-finals if Belgium advances. "It's my first child, so I definitely want to be there," he expressed. A private plane is reportedly being arranged for Doku's quick return to England.

After backlash, Pierron apologized for her comments, stating her intention was never to diminish the importance of fathers' roles.