Former Aston Villa striker Darren Bent shared his thoughts on the Club’s stunning 1-0 victory over Bundesliga side Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League, singling out the performances of England internationals Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran. Bent, who played 72 matches for Aston Villa across all competitions, scoring 25 goals and providing three assists, understands the pressures and expectations of leading the line for the club.
Watkins Tireless Work Paves Way For Duran – Darren Bent
Speaking on talkSPORT, Bent praised the club’s forward options and highlighted how Watkins’ tireless work set the stage for Duran’s match-winning goal.
Bent emphasized the importance of Watkins’ selfless effort, explaining that the English striker’s running and physicality throughout the first hour of the match wore down Bayern’s defense, allowing Duran to capitalize when introduced.
“The finish from Duran… what a finish,” Bent began. “They’ve got two strikers, and it’s a little bit harsh when we talk about Duran and Watkins. Who would you swap? But what people have to remember is the work Watkins puts in during the first 45, 50 minutes. He’s running behind, backing, using his body, using his headers, almost tiring out the backline before Duran comes on. He’s fresh, he’s hungry, he’s 20, and he’s got all the ability in the world.”
Jhon Duran’s Impact
Bent lauded Duran’s decisive goal, praising his composure against one of the world’s best goalkeepers, Manuel Neuer. “Duran comes on, he’s sitting on the bench probably thinking, ‘When is my opportunity?’ He gets on… great finish against one of the best goalkeepers ever, Manuel Neuer,” Bent said.
Duran’s performances this season have been impressive, with his goal against Bayern adding to his growing reputation as a key player for Aston Villa. Despite being used primarily as a substitute, the 20-year-old has demonstrated his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Watkins, Duran Can Perform In Big Moments
Bent acknowledged the competition between Villa’s two strikers but noted that both Watkins and Duran have proven their ability to perform on the biggest stages. “They’ve got two centre forwards there that have shown, certainly in recent times, they can produce in big moments,” Bent explained. “We saw Watkins in the Euro semi-final, unbelievable goal. Last night, John Duran comes on and does the same.” During the Euro 2024 Tournament, Ollie Watkins came off the bench to score the winner as the Three Lions defeated the Netherlands by 2 goals to 1.
Bent believes Villa is in a strong position and suggested that Duran’s lack of starts is not yet a concern. However, if the young striker continues to deliver, it will be difficult to keep him out of the starting lineup.
“I think Aston Villa are in a good place,” Bent said. “I don’t think there’s any issues yet about Duran coming off the bench, but it’s going to get to a point where, if he continues to do it, he’s going to want to start games. He’ll get his minutes; I think Villa will do well in the FA Cup, League Cup, and the Premier League.”
With Aston Villa competing on multiple fronts this season, Bent is confident that Duran will have ample opportunities to showcase his talent. “He’ll get his minutes, and yes, it’s frustrating that he’s not starting, but it’s coming,” he concluded.
Conclusion
Darren Bent’s analysis of Aston Villa’s victory over Bayern Munich depicted the invaluable contributions of both Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran. Watkins’ tireless work upfront laid the foundation for Duran’s match-winning impact, which signifies the strength and depth of Villa’s attacking options. With Villa competing on multiple fronts this season, Bent is confident that both strikers will have their moments to shine, especially as Duran proves himself. As Aston Villa moves forward, the dynamic between these two forwards could be a key factor in their success across domestic and European competitions.
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