McGinn has his sights on a thriller for Villa’s stars
JOHN McGINN believes Dean Smith’s on-form Aston Villa can make this “a special season”.
Villa continue to develop under gaffer Smith and have put themselves in the mix for a European spot.
The 1982 European Cup winners last qualified for Europe under ex-Celt Martin O’Neill 11 years ago and McGinn says the players can help the fans to dream again.
The Scotland midfielder felt Villa’s impressive 1-0 Premier League win at Leeds on Saturday courtesy of Anwar El Ghazi’s fifthminute goal was a real statement of intent.
They nullified Leeds’ potent attack to become the first side in any of Europe’s top five leagues to register eight clean sheets away from home this season.
Smith outfoxed Marcelo Bielsa as Villa started quickly, capitalised on Leeds’ weaknesses at setpieces to score and then soaked up all the home side’s pressure.
McGinn said: “They came to Villa Park and put three past us so we had to put it right here.
“We got the goal early on then showed real grit, determination and desire.
“I’m sure everyone back at home, and everyone in the dressing room, is delighted with a massive three points.
“That’s what it’s going to take. We’ve got it in us to make this a special season.
“Here it was about rolling our sleeves up.
“Anwar showed a bit of quality in the first half to get us in front.
“After that it was just flinging bodies on the line and doing anything it took to get the three points.
“And thankfully we were able to do that.”