Jhon Duran almost left Aston Villa in the summer. (Credit: Imago)

Jhon Duran to start Aston Villa v Manchester United, Ollie Watkins decision to be made

Dan is a Villa-mad presenter, podcaster and panellist. He’s presented for AVFC Official Facebook Live and The Villa View YouTube channel. Dan’s also featured for The Athletic and Sky Sports News. He’s now sharing his opinions on the first team, the academy and the women’s team with Villa News.

Published on:

04 Oct 2024, 3:16 am

Dan Bardell could see Jhon Duran and Ollie Watkins starting against Manchester United after the 1-0 win over Bayern Munich.

The Villans secured an historic victory over the Bundesliga giants at Villa Park on Wednesday 2 October with the Colombia international grabbing the winner.

Despite a superb result, Unai Emery's attentions will already be turning to a home clash against the Red Devils on Sunday (6 October).

Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell believes the Spaniard could feature Watkins alongside his super sub from the start against Erik ten Hag's side.

Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: "Jhon Duran just continues to amaze me. How long can this keep happening?

"Every time he comes on now I think 'he can't do it again' and every time he does.

"I think the goal he scored against Everton was one of the best I've ever seen at Villa Park and for him to score that goal on the biggest stage against Bayern Munich is just absolutely incredible.

"I actually think he might start on Sunday alongside Watkins, especially if the injury situation continues. It was just a lovely goal, he's just playing some unbelievable football.

"I was very critical of him last season but I can't knock him at all this season. He's doing all he can to get into the starting XI, he can't do any more."

Jhon Duran could start for Aston Villa v Manchester United

The Villans are now preparing to return to B6, after the win against the Bundesliga giants, to face Manchester United.

It is safe to say that the Red Devils have struggled in recent weeks, failing to win in their last three encounters in all competitions.

Duran could prove to be a problem for ten Hag's backline after conceding eight goals in their opening six Premier League games.

The 20-year-old has been superb off the bench all campaign long and carried that trend on against Bayern Munich.

There is only so long that Emery can leave him on the bench before he grows impatient. As a result, a start against United could prove to make sense for all parties on Sunday (6 September).