Jhon Duran has been crying out for starts at Aston Villa and he now has got his wish, but in the colours of Colombia.
In a crucial World Cup qualifier, Emi Martinez’s Argentina stood on the other side, unbeaten and looking as formidable as ever.
Duran has scored two winners for Aston Villa already this season – all from the bench – so, it was going to be interesting to see how he would react and fair as a starter.
Colombia proceeded to win the match 2-1, with ex-Real Madrid and Everton star James Rodriguez getting the winner and inflicting pain on Aston Villa‘s number one.
In that respect, you would think Villa’s up-and-coming striker would have been lauded and applauded for his performance, especially during a win, but think again.
Perhaps there is a reason why Unai Emery has held Duran back and he isn’t throwing him straight into the deep end, even if he is crying out for it.
Colombian outlet El Tiempo rated Duran just four out of ten for his performance, with the Villa man subbed off and also receiving a yellow card during the game.
It was stated that the 20-year-old’s yellow card was ‘ridiculous’ and that he didn’t do the basics right during the match.
Duran has played 12 games for his country, only netting once, but he has only earned two starts, which proves that he still has a long way to go.
Colombia beat Argentina in World Cup qualifier
‘Off,’ wrote El Tiempo. ‘He did not fulfil his main tasks. Wasted a goal and earned a ridiculous yellow. Four points (out of ten)’.
Jhon Duran v Ollie Watkins
It has since been revealed that Duran thinks he is better than Watkins, hence why he wanted to leave this summer and earn more starts.
From Emery’s perspective, this is very healthy, if he can keep both on board because they will continue to push one another – Watkins returned early from England duty.
READ MORE: Boubacar Kamara injury latest as Aston Villa share training update ahead of Everton clash
Villa return to the Champions League next week and it’s going to be interesting to see how Emery rotates his squad.
Up until the next international break, the Midlands side will play seven matches across all competitions, so there is ample time for everyone to earn starts and showcase what they are all about.
