Featured Image Credit: TNT Sport
Topics: Aston Villa, Unai Emery, Champions League, West Ham United, Transfers, Premier League
Luke Davies
Topics: Aston Villa, Unai Emery, Champions League, West Ham United, Transfers, Premier League
Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran had to be calmed down by the club’s staff on Tuesday evening.
The Colombian is in impressive form this term, having scored seven goals in 12 appearances.
His scoring exploits continued in Villa’s 2-0 win against Bologna at Villa Park on Tuesday evening, with his strike securing all three points after John McGinn put the Villains ahead on 55 minutes.
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The result put Unai Emery’s side top of the Champions League table, but even this was not enough to stop Duran’s antics after he was substituted shortly after scoring.
The 20-year-old was less than impressed with Emery’s decision to withdraw him, and he appeared to engage in a heated discussion with members of the Villa bench. The youngster could not contain his anger as he kicked the seat in front of him.
Duran then walked down the tunnel before re-emerging after the full-time whistle to join in with the celebrations.
This is not the first time the striker has been at the centre of controversy. During the summer transfer window, he was heavily linked with a move to West Ham United.
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The Colombian was investigated by the club after appearing to cross his arms to make an ‘Irons’ gesture amid the interest from West Ham, according to The Athletic.
The report also suggested that the Hammers bid £30m in July – an offer that was rejected by Villa. This meant Duran stayed and ironically scored away at the London Stadium on August 17.
Since then, he has built on his opening-day strike to the delight of the Villa faithful.
Although an unsavoury reaction to being subbed is less than advisable, Emery played down the situation after the match.
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“I have no problem with his reaction,” he explained.
"Every message we send in the dressing room is about respect and having our values.
“Some young players can react a little bit, but it is under my control. His first start of this year – always it is more difficult to start when the opponents are fresh.
“He played very well, and he scored a good goal. It was fantastic the way he accelerated.
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“We will play both strikers sometimes, and when they play individually as well as today – with Ollie Watkins – it is best for the team."