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Jhon Duran has rapidly become Aston Villa’s most potent weapon off the bench, scoring crucial goals this season. Despite not being a regular starter, his efficiency in front of goal is earning him recognition.
In five Premier League appearances, the Colombian has scored four goals, all as a substitute. His impact has been decisive, with match-winning strikes against West Ham, Leicester, and Everton.
Duran may struggle to displace Ollie Watkins, Villa’s main striker, who netted 27 goals last season. Yet, his contributions from the bench make him a constant threat.
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He bagged another goal as a substitute in Villa’s 3-1 victory over Wolves on Saturday, adding their third in stoppage time. His ability to seize opportunities is setting him apart from others in the league.
Duran’s three match-winners from the bench this season are unparalleled. Aston Villa fans have embraced his impact with thunderous support each time he enters the pitch.
Statistically, his performance is remarkable, with a goal every 80 minutes in the Premier League. Only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland boasts a marginally better rate with a goal every 79 minutes.
Villa manager Unai Emery has praised Duran’s influence, though Watkins remains the first-choice striker with three goals this term. Duran’s versatility, however, is difficult to overlook as he builds his reputation.
Duran has already scored eight goals for Aston Villa, seven of them as a substitute. He is closing in on Julian Joachim’s club record for goals from the bench in the Premier League.
His influence goes beyond just scoring goals. Against Wolves, Duran won possession before assisting Morgan Rogers, who set up Watkins’ equalizer. He has shown a willingness to contribute in key moments.
At just 20 years old, Duran’s maturity on the pitch is striking. His team-mate Ezri Konsa commended him, saying Duran is a big talent who needs to remain grounded.
His rise has not gone unnoticed, with West Ham making two bids for the forward during the summer transfer window. Villa’s refusal to sell is already proving a wise decision.
Though still developing, Duran’s performance this season suggests he’s on track to break records for winning goals from the bench. The question now is whether he will continue to serve as Villa’s go-to super-sub or step into a bigger role.
With Duran’s continued contributions, Aston Villa has a formidable ace in their sleeve, one that is reshaping the role of the Premier League super-sub.
Tags: Jhon Duran, Aston Villa, Premier League, Ollie Watkins, West Ham, Leicester, Everton, Morgan Rogers, #nrtcsports, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnigeria, #NewsRoundTheClock.
