Duran controversy: Sky journalist blasts authorities over Aston Villa treatment

Anthony Taylor has been slammed by a Sky Sports journalist who believes Aston Villa have been let down after Jhon Duran’s red card appeal was rejected.

The Colombia international was left raging after being sent off against Newcastle United on 26th December for alleged violent conduct.

The Villans appealed the decision but have since announced that they have been unsuccessful which will see the 21-year-old miss the next three Premier League games [avfc.co.uk].

Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell wasn’t surprised by this news after being left frustrated by the referee’s decision at St James’ Park.

Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “I wasn’t expecting the appeal to go Villa’s way, even though I think overall it was a really poor bit of officiating from Anthony Taylor.

Taylor rushed and didn’t give himself any thinking time and his actions made sure VAR was never going to be utilised, which I think is wrong.

Villa now lose Duran for three games, on top of what was a game-finishing decision.

I can’t see how, objectively what Duran did can be labelled a deliberate act. I’m the first to criticise Duran for certain things, but on this occasion, I feel very sorry for him.

The appeals process has also let Villa down badly, but as I say, I’m not surprised.

Anthony Taylor slammed as Aston Villa lose Jhon Duran red card appeal

The referee was extremely quick to pull the red card out after Newcastle players gathered around him after the striker’s challenge on Fabian Schar.

VAR didn’t send Taylor to the pitch side monitor despite the subjective nature of the decision as it could be said that Duran had nowhere else to go.

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran
Credit: Imago

Unai Emery and other Villa officials have reacted negatively but ultimately will have to swallow this decision and look ahead to a clash against Brighton on Monday (30 December).

In other Aston Villa news, a permanent transfer has been mooted for one star after a fresh loan decision.

For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channelfor instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.