Aston Villa’s Appeal for Jhon Durán’s Red Card Rejected, Striker to Serve Three-Match Ban

Aston Villa has expressed shock and disappointment after the Football Association rejected their appeal against Jhon Durán’s controversial red card, confirming the striker will serve a three-match suspension.

The Colombian forward was sent off in the 32nd minute of Villa’s Boxing Day defeat to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. Referee Anthony Taylor issued a straight red card, deeming Durán’s actions as an intentional stamp on Newcastle defender Fabian Schär during a first-half collision. Newcastle led 1-0 at the time, eventually securing a 3-0 victory over the 10-man visitors.

Replays showed Durán appeared to lose his footing, rolling his left ankle before his right boot inadvertently landed on Schär’s back. Villa manager Unai Emery criticized the decision and questioned the lack of intervention from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

“The red card was clear for the referee straight away—he was the only person in the stadium who couldn’t take his time,” Emery said post-match. “He has to be intelligent, use VAR, and get the right decision. Durán was apologizing quickly; it wasn’t his intention.” Emery also suggested Durán’s reputation as a hothead might have influenced the decision.

Durán’s suspension is a significant blow to Villa. The 21-year-old striker has been in fine form this season, scoring 12 goals across all competitions, including three in the UEFA Champions League and seven in the Premier League. Only Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers have been involved in more Premier League goals for Villa this season.

With Durán sidelined, Villa will face Brighton, Leicester City, and West Ham United in his absence, the latter being their FA Cup third-round clash on January 10. Durán’s absence will likely see Emery rely on Ollie Watkins to lead the attack.

Villa issued a statement on their official X account confirming the failed appeal, saying: “Aston Villa can confirm that our decision to appeal Jhon Durán’s red card in our match with Newcastle United has been rejected. The player will now miss our next three matches.”

Durán’s suspension disrupts a breakthrough December for the Colombian, who had started more matches this month than in the rest of his Villa career combined. Despite the setback, Villa remains hopeful their attacking depth can keep them competitive in the weeks ahead.

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