England's Watkins defends Doku over baby birth World Cup dilemma

England striker Ollie Watkins has publicly defended Belgium's Jeremy Doku, who plans to leave the World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child. Watkins, a father of two himself, argued that family events, especially the arrival of a first child, should be prioritized over professional commitments.

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I think for a start (disgusting) is not a way to label a birth. It only happens once, your first child. Welcoming them into the world is a blessing, and you don't get that opportunity (again).

Watkins dismissed comments from a television presenter who described childbirth as a "disgusting moment" where the father is "completely useless." He stated that welcoming a child into the world is a unique blessing and that missing such an event would be incredibly difficult, especially given the time footballers often spend away from family during the season.

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There's a lot of times where you're away from family and friends during the season, and it's very difficult periods. So, to miss that would be tough.

The Aston Villa forward emphasized that players should have the autonomy to make personal decisions during significant life events. He believes Doku has every right to return home to support his wife, Shireen, and that arrangements for his swift travel are likely being made. Watkins asserted that it is "no one else's business" and that Doku's choice is perfectly acceptable.

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I see where (Doku) is coming from. I think he has all the right to go back and be there.

Jeremy Doku, a key player for Belgium, is expecting his first child in early July, potentially during the World Cup's quarter-final stage. He has expressed a strong desire to be present for the birth. Reports suggest a private plane may be arranged to facilitate his travel. The presenter who made critical remarks about Doku's decision has since apologized after facing backlash on social media.

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So I don't think it's anyone else's business, I think if he goes back and does that, I think that's fair enough.