Aston Villa striker hit with FA charge on top of three match ban

Duran was sent off during Villa's 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United - and the club had their appeal of his three match ban rejected.

The striker had to be led away from the pitch and appeared to kick an object on the side of the pitch before going down the tunnel.

And now on top of his three match ban, he has been hit with a charge of improper conduct.

In a statement, the FA said: "Jhon Duran has been charged following the Premier League fixture between Newcastle United and Aston Villa on Thursday 26 December 2024.

"It is alleged that the Aston Villa forward acted in an improper manner in the 32nd minute of the fixture, after being sent off.

"Jhon Duran has until Friday 3 January 2025 to provide a response."

Duran's suspension for his red card handed Ollie Watkins the chance to return to the Villa fold - and he marked his recall and his birthday with a goal and an assist in Villa's 2-2 draw with Brighton on Monday evening.

Boss Unai Emery says Watkins needs to regain his confidence as the striker still searches for his best form.

The 29-year-old's year got off to a superb start, firing Villa to Champions League qualification before peaking with his Euro 2024 semi-final winning goal for England in the summer.

But he has been scratching around for his top level since and has recently spent time on the bench, with Emery preferring Jhon Duran in the starting XI.

Emery said: "He has to feel confidence and he has to feel comfortable with his qualities in the style we have.

"He increased his level in the last two years and now he has healthy competition with Jhon Duran."