Aston Villa: Jhon Duran scores stunner to send clear message to Unai Emery
Since Duran joined Villa in January 2023, he has only made two starts alongside Watkins.
Although Emery said on Monday he would be willing to play both strikers at the same time, it’s clear he prefers one over the other.
The situation could easily create friction between the two players, but Duran said he’s happy to play whatever role the team needs him to play.
“We work hard as a team and scoring is my job. The most important thing is the win and the three points on the road,” Duran told Amazon Prime after the game.
“I’m delighted to be here and I really enjoyed playing against Ollie Watkins. When it’s my turn I’ll step up and hopefully I can score and help the team.
“We’re happy to be where we are in the table but we have to win the game at home (against Celtic) and we’re going through so we’re happy about that.”
Duran turns 21 on Friday, and he knows exactly how he wants to celebrate.
“I’m definitely not going out to celebrate my birthday because my goal is to celebrate by scoring on Saturday,” he added.
In his post-match interview, Emery revealed why he continued to start Watkins over Duran.
“He (Dulan) is very passionate at times and we have to try to keep a balance with him,” Emery told Amazon Prime.
“He scored a wonderful goal and he worked hard and we are trying to make the team stronger through tactical methods. His potential is huge. Tactically he is improving and today he played a wonderful 45 minute.”
