Albrighton on Duran’s ‘Golden Touch’ Amidst Goal Surge

Former Aston Villa winger Marc Albrighton commented on Jhon Duran’s current form, stating that “everything he touches turns to gold at the moment,” following the Colombia forward’s latest goal in the Champions League. Duran’s season total now stands at 10 goals, with three of these scored in European competitions. In contrast, his fellow striker Ollie Watkins has not yet scored in the Champions League. Although manager Unai Emery has expressed a desire to deploy both players simultaneously, the match against Leipzig saw Watkins begin the game, with Duran substituting him at half-time. On the BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily podcast, Albrighton remarked about the 20-year-old Duran, stating, “He really led the line well.” Albrighton further elaborated, “In previous occasions he has scored, but Watkins has offered more in terms of being an all-round striker. That is probably why Emery favours him to start games. But when Duran came on, he put himself around a bit more and was more involved in link-up play. He topped all of that off with his goal.” Albrighton continued, “Why wouldn’t he be enjoying himself? Everything he touches at the minute seems to turn to gold.” He acknowledged Duran’s likely desire for more starting opportunities but added, “from a Villa point of view, it’s working really well at the minute. It’s not like Watkins is out of form. Yes, he might not have the goals Duran has but he offers a lot more than that.” Albrighton concluded by commending Emery’s management of both players this season, stating, “The way that Emery has managed them both this season cannot be faulted.” He also suggested, “It may be to Duran’s detriment, that he is so good at coming on from the bench.”