Jhon Duran future at Aston Villa to change after latest controversy
Jhon Duran could see his entire Aston Villa career outlook change courtesy of the suspension he is currently serving, according to Ian Darke.
The TV commentator, speaking exclusively to Villa News, has explained that Ollie Watkins will now sense his minimum three-game opportunity to win his place back and it could derail Duran’s individual season.
The Colombian saw the appeal for his red card at Newcastle United on Boxing Day upheld, with the disciplinary panel deeming the on-field decision to be correct in that he “stamped” on the back of Fabian Schar.
“I’m very surprised it wasn’t turned over on appeal,” Darke admitted.
“I thoroughly agreed with the interpretation of the pundits on Match of the Day after the incident, who I thought proved pretty conclusively that when his left foot landed, he seemed to turn his ankle and there was nowhere to put his right foot down other than unfortunately where it went.
“It could change his long-term future at Villa Park, because Watkins now knows the battle on his hands for his place back.”
Duran v Watkins battle reignited at Aston Villa
While precious few would have predicted Watkins struggling for his place in the Aston Villa team if you rewind back to the summer, that is the situation that has emerged with full credit to Duran.
Unai Emery’s system appears to only accommodate one of the duo, whose firepower comes in different ways.
With Duran suspended for the next two matches at Villa Park, Watkins meanwhile has made the most of his regained opportunity, scoring and assisting last time out against Brighton in the 2-2 draw (30 December).
The 21-year-old is set to return from his ban away at Everton on 15 January, though an extension of the suspension cannot be ruled out.
In other Aston Villa news, Dharmesh Sheth reports Ipswich Town want a Villa man valued at £18million.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.