Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran hung out to dry after international development
Aston Villa have been fairly prolific in front of goal in recent weeks with Ollie Watkins finding some of the best form of his career.
The 27-year-old has been immense with seven goals and assists in his last eight games. This purple patch has come at the perfect time for Unai Emery. Villa have been stuck in mid-table for a long period of time but are now within touching distance of some of the top-half pacesetters.
Beyond Watkins, Villa’s striker options are limited, which is why Emery has been drip-feeding Jhon Duran first-team minutes.
The 19-year-old forward has featured for 99 minutes in the Premier League and has looked fairly lively during his fleeting appearances. According to Wyscout, Duran is averaging 5.45 shots per 90 minutes, which is three more than Watkins.
Furthermore, the Colombian’s XG (expected goals) of 0.54 indicates that a goal is on the horizon. However, despite calls for the youngster to be given more playing time, Emery’s decision to stick to what he knows is looking like a smart choice.
Duran has been on international duty with Colombia and was given a 25-minute run-out during Friday’s 2-2 draw with South Korea (24 March). On the face of it, the chance to make an impact on the international stage could have forced Emery’s hand slightly. The youngster categorically failed to make an impression.
Despite being relatively shot-hungry for Villa, the 19-year-old failed to register one effort on goal. Considering international performances can gain plenty of traction, this was a chance for Duran and he’s passed it up.
Furthermore, he failed to complete one successful dribble or cross whilst operating in a wider position. The game against South Korea could well be an indication to Emery of where Duran’s best position is. Néstor Lorenzo’s decision to use Duran in a wide-left role was daft.
During his short time at Villa Park, he has shown he is a livewire in and around the box. A sharpshooter who will get into good positions and be a goalscoring threat; his expected goals back this up.
He’s not a player who will look to beat defenders in a wide area and deliver a pinpoint cross. He was hung out to dry by the national team boss and will be hoping to make an impact when his country take on Japan on Tuesday (28 March).
Considering Colombia’s ageing striker options – 37-year-old Radamel Falcao is still an active member of the squad – they should be looking to give the Villa striker the chance to make an impact from the outset in his favoured role.
In other Aston Villa news, an academy gem can save Wes Edens and Nassef Sawiris millions in the long-run after his recent loan performances.