Striker Debate: Should it now be Watkins, Malen or both?

[Footy-Vill]

Duran did come on 64th mins and he partnered Watkins instead of replacing him. Bailey made way instead.
In commentary it was suggested Rogers and Watkins have built up and understanding which also contributed to fact Duran isn't starting.

Didn't see much evidence of link up play between Watkins and JD.
I'm wondering if it's a Watkins and Ings scenario.

[Footy-Vill]

With Duran coming in and scoring for Colombia on international duty I would give him the bench role again on Saturday v Fulham and start Watkins.
Against Bologna I would start with both of the strikers.

[Footy-Vill]

Emery has talked about Duran starting.
I don't see Watkins being dropped so it's a matter of time before he starts both.
Maybe it's Fulham or maybe Bologna!

On Duran:
"I am thinking how with his process here and how Duran is progressing how important it is for him to start in these matches. Maybe tomorrow or maybe in the next games we play.

He's ready and his next challenge is coming. Jhon Duran's performances have been very good for us, playing minutes and getting more minutes for him. I think this month is the same."

[Footy-Vill]

Vs Fulham Duran comes on for Watkins.
No partnership seen as not on pitch together.
Would have been nice to see it especially against 10 men.

[Footy-Vill]

Half way through the season and this debate is still very pertinent and at forefront of discussion.
Duran isn't leaving in this winter window , back from suspension but Watkins scored last match and he's got the jersey as far I see for Arsenal.

El Maestro said this week on Watkins and Duran
"I’m happy with both strikers, and it’s a privilege for me to train them. Every Aston Villa supporter should be proud of how we can have strikers like Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran.

One is the reality, and performing always very good, and progressively getting better - that’s Ollie.

And the other is Jhon who is 21 and we can exploit his potential here. Of course, I don’t know if we are going to keep them here for a long time but hopefully we will."

I actually think if was a choice Watkins may stay longer term than Duran. Emery seems very fond of him and talks about Watkins being reality and Duran beng potential.

[LeeS]

The best scenario would be that they learn how to play together and form an unstoppable partnership. We’d be nigh on unbeatable

[usav]

The best scenario would be that they learn how to play together and form an unstoppable partnership. We’d be nigh on unbeatable

Hmmm.

[LeeS]

The best scenario would be that they learn how to play together and form an unstoppable partnership. We’d be nigh on unbeatable

Hmmm.

I don’t know it. What are the lyrics?

[eamonn]

We don't need another hero

[Footy-Vill]

https://www.skysports.com/football/video/30998/13292003/merse-anything-to-say-youre-a-bit-quiet-ollie-watkins-calls-out-paul-merson

Sky Sports after game other day featuring Merson and Hendrie

Part of interview with Watkins there's debate on Watkins and Duran.

[Footy-Vill]

Watkins the man in form keeps his place and starts with Duran on the bench.
Hopefully Watkins can get his first champions league goal. He's been unlucky so far this tournament.

Both have appeared in every champions league match.
Suspect Duran to come in at some point
One more booking would see Duran suspended

[Footy-Vill]

On the ever continuing debate regards Watkins and Duran there's was a conversation on TNT pre this Monaco game.
Hutton said he doesn't think both can play together. Its one or the other.
Lescott said they don't need need to play together.

It was also mentioned the signing of Malen as another attacking option and the West Ham £57m bid for Duran.
Lescott also seemed to think Malen was a replacement for Duran!
Hutton more informed as Malen can play across the forward line.

[Footy-Vill]

Watkins the man in form keeps his place and starts with Duran on the bench.
Hopefully Watkins can get his first champions league goal. He's been unlucky so far this tournament.

Both have appeared in every champions league match.
Suspect Duran to come in at some point
One more booking would see Duran suspended

I think 3 goals in the last three games suggests that Watkins was nailed on to start, and rightly so.

Agreed.

[Olneythelonely]

Unai looks sick to death about being asked about them all the time.

[Rudy Can't Fail]

Posted this in the Match thread but probably better here:

As much as I love Duran and what he could become, watching the last training session he really needs to get over himself. Previously I watched him turn up late for the group, then acting the twat as he wanted to be in another group rather than the one the coaches had put him in. Mings had to drag him in. Then he did nothing but Unai sent him in.

The other day he at least got out in time though again the last player out. He then put in a half arsed warm up and really wasn't that interested. I know this is down to reading his body language but I really think the lad needs to grow up. That stupid interview where he brags about arguing with Unai was fucking embarrassing.

Fantastic player, could go on to achieve whatever he wants but I'm thinking he has forced Unai's hand to play Watkins tonight by once again acting like a twat. You can't be seen to reward such actions so he only has himself to blame.