Jhon Duran will serve a three-game ban after Aston Villa had their appeal against his red card rejected by the Football Association (FA).
Duran was sent off during the first half of Villa’s 3-0 defeat at Newcastle United on Boxing Day for a foul on Fabian Schar.
The 21-year-old Colombian was dismissed for violent conduct by referee Anthony Taylor after appearing to stamp on the back of the Newcastle defender as the two players fell to the ground. He will miss Villa’s next three Premier League fixtures, against Brighton & Hove Albion, Leicester City and Everton.
In his post-match press conference, Villa manager Unai Emery was strong in his criticism of the decision, insisting the club would appeal the ban. Emery also suggested Duran’s reputation had influenced Taylor’s decision to send him off, rather than allow VAR Graham Scott to decide whether to intervene.
“Wow, it’s hard to accept,” said Emery. “Because the foot is not clear if it’s touching. Three matches… wow OK. Maybe because it’s Jhon Duran. We are working a lot with him to teach him always the good way and he is doing this effort.”
He added: “Today, fair or unfair, VAR is there to get the best choice. Because it’s not a clear red card. The punishment is so big for the player because it was not his intention to do it.
“I could accept if he was watching VAR to punish with a red card. But the referee is the only person on the field who can take time to make a correct decision. The referees have to be intelligent and the first moment was difficult.
“You have VAR and confirm it please. Because the punishment is so, so high if it’s not clear. I always agree (to use) VAR, so use it please.”
Duran has made 25 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring 12 goals.
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