Why 19-year old has to start in place of injured £28m Aston Villa star
It has been a great start to the season for Aston Villa and they will look to keep up their form against Bournemouth away.This season, under Unai Emery, there has been some criticism of the Villans due to their losses away from home. Considering they are yet to lose at home, it has been disappointing to lose three games on the road.
In midweek, the Villans played host to Legia Warsaw and were able to secure their place in the next round of the Europa Conference League.
The news that surprised fans prior to kick-off against the Polish outfit was that Ollie Watkins was missing from the squad. On that, transcribed by the Metro, Emery said: “We are going to think about only the match on Sunday. At the moment it is 50/50 for Sunday.”
This could see Watkins, who cost Villa £28m, play a part against the Cherries but given the injury he may not be risked.
Despite not getting on the scoresheet against Legia, Duran performed well considering a general lack of minutes recently.
On the night, according to SofaScore, he had two shots on target and had one blocked. If it wasn’t for a great save from Kacper Tobiasz he would have grabbed yet another Conference League goal.
Despite only having 28 touches, the Colombian always puts a shift in when it comes to pressing from the front. With five ground duels and one aerial duel won throughout the game he made his presence known. Adding to that with a clearance and a tackle, he was defensively sound throughout.
Although he is young and a raw talent starting in the Premier League is probably coming a bit soon but needs must. Right now he is the only other recognised senior striker other than Watkins at the club which means he’s set to come in.
With pace, power and a great attitude to defend from the front, he has plenty of ability to tap into. Against a Bournemouth side that has struggled at times this season, Duran could have a chance to register his second Premier League goal.
After some unsure moments earlier in the campaign, it is good to see him getting back amongst the teamsheet.
