Emiliano Martinez sends subtle warning to ‘unstoppable’ Aston Villa star

Villa goalkeeper Martinez believes Duran can become one of the best forwards in the world but only if he remains grounded.

Duran’s rocket against Everton goes down as an early goal of the season contender and one that earned Villa a third victory in four matches. The Colombian has now scored three times in the Premier League this campaign without starting a single game, though there have been concerns over his wild personality.

The 20-year-old, who was described by captain John McGinn as “a bit nuts” last season, can often be a loose cannon. The summer transfer window emphasised this tendency as Duran, when seemingly close to joining West Ham following several bids in excess of £30 million, posted on social media with his fists aloft in an ‘irons’ gesture.

That action caused an uproar among supporters and warranted an internal club investigation. Emery put it down to immaturity as Duran is still just 20 years of age, but it’s true that the striker needs to control his off-the-field decisions in future. That said, if he continues performing as well as he is, not many associated with Villa will care.

“I have seen it from behind and I saw the ball moving - it was unstoppable,” Martinez said of Duran’s goal after Villa’s 3-2 win over Everton. “We have been trying to help Duran in the Premier League and if he can keep the consistency he can be a really big threat.

“He can be one of the best strikers in the world, but he needs to keep his feet on the ground and to work hard. He has one of the top strikers [Ollie Watkins] in England playing in front of him,” Martinez continued.

Duran’s goal soared Villa up to third in the Premier League standings, three points behind leaders Manchester City. It was by no means a perfect performance against Everton - especially defensively - but a win is a win, and Emery’s men will take great confidence going into their first Champions League game against Young Boys on Tuesday.