Danny Murphy wowed by what ‘unbelievable’ Jhon Duran did in Aston Villa vs Everton
Jhon Duran has risen to the challenge once again against Everton for Aston Villa as he produced a moment described by Danny Murphy as “unbelievable”.
Villa came from two goals down to inflict yet more misery on bottom-placed Everton with Duran firing a memorable winner.
The young Colombian has made an impact so far this season with three Premier League goals in four appearances, attracting the plaudits of several TV pundits and former players.
Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day on Saturday night [14 September, 12:43], Murphy said of Duran’s goal: “Saving the best until last – Jhon Duran, unbelievable strike.
“He’s got eight Premier League goals and he’s only started three games. And that’s got to be his best.”
Jhon Duran forcing his way into Aston Villa contention
Duran’s relationship with the Aston Villa fans has been something of a rollercoaster over the past few months, but he is endearing himself to the faithful with superb goals like what he pulled from the locker on Saturday.
The 20-year-old – who was seemingly close to a move to West Ham United in the summer – has certainly made an impact despite his fight for minutes with the crucial Ollie Watkins, coming on to complete 67% of his passes and force three shots [Fotmob].
Unai Emery’s system means Duran is often found frustrated by having to settle for a place on the bench, and has for now been entrusted with the impact role as a substitute – but can bide his time to make himself indispensable if he keeps his head down.
So far, this approach is bearing fruit with the striker having netted three goals in just 103 minutes, compared to Watkins’ two in 272 minutes [Soccerway].
Duran excels in some areas and does require improvement in others – his 64% aerial duel success ratio in league matches this season is soured slightly by winning just 25% of his duels on the ground. Watkins has an even worse figure of just 19% [Sofascore].
Emery, a pragmatism master as a coach, knows he has a rough diamond on his hands and after a summer of probability Duran would leave Villa Park, the Holte End will be over the moon he remains in their shade of claret and blue.
In other Aston Villa news, a protest planned ahead of the start of the Champions League.
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