Aston Villa’s frustration has deepened after their appeal to overturn Jhon Duran’s controversial red card against Newcastle United was rejected.
The Colombian striker now faces a three-match suspension, a decision that has left many people questioning the fairness of the Premier League’s disciplinary process.
Duran was sent off in the 32nd minute of Villa’s 3-0 loss at St James’ Park for an alleged stamp on Fabian Schar.
Referee Anthony Taylor showed no hesitation in brandishing the red card, a decision that Villa manager Unai Emery immediately condemned as harsh and unjust.
The club’s subsequent appeal has been dismissed, ensuring that Duran will miss crucial matches against Brighton & Hove Albion, Leicester City and West Ham United.
The incident itself was highly contentious. While slow-motion replays appeared incriminating, with Duran’s boot making contact with Schar, the question of intent looms large.
Football pundits and former players have been divided in their assessments. Former Newcastle star Alan Shearer described the decision as ‘harsh’.
“When you are travelling at that much speed, how can you be certain that he has nowhere else to put his foot?” Shearer questioned.
Emery has not held back in his criticism. The Villa manager passionately defended his player, insisting that Duran’s actions were accidental.
“Three matches because of this red card is hard to accept,” Emery said. “The foot was not clear, and he had no intention to kick him. The referees have to be fair.”
Emery’s frustration is understandable, given Duran’s growing importance to Villa and the potentially damaging impact of his absence.
This decision has reignited the ongoing debate about the consistency of officiating and the use of VAR in English football.
The rejection of their appeal adds insult to injury for Villa, leaving both the club and its supporters questioning how such a pivotal call could stand without clearer evidence of wrongdoing.
