In-demand Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has admitted he is enjoying his current battle with Ollie Watkins - as insisted he loves life at Villa Park despite nearly joining Chelsea in the summer.
The 20-year-old Colombia international has been in stellar form for Unai Emery's side this season, scoring ten goals from just three starts across all competitions.
But despite the impressive form that has seen him net in the Champions League against Bayern Munich and most recently against RB Leipzig, Duran has been unable to displace Watkins as Villa's first-choice striker this season.
However, the former Chicago Fire forward has said he is relishing his current battle with England international Watkins.
Speaking to the Aston Villa club website, Duran said: "I'm just happy to be here. I actually love the competition I have going with Ollie Watkins.
"When it's my turn, I will step up, and hopefully I can score and help the team. We worked hard as a team and, well, that's my job, to score.
"That's what I work hard to do, but the main thing is three points away from home, and that's what we got today.
"We're so happy to be where we are in the standings right now. We've got to win the (next) game and we're almost through, so we're delighted about that."
Chelsea tried to sign Duran from Villa earlier this year, with the Blues allowed to discuss personal terms with the player. However, a deal never materialised and even after late interest from West Ham, Duran remained at Villa Park.
Duran committed his future to Villa in October by signing a new long-term contract with the club.
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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