John Townley and Dan Rolinson talked about John McGinn’s position in the upcoming season of Claret & Blue during their most recent Q&A session, which you can watch on YouTube or listen to on your favorite podcast provider. “Will John McGinn be first choice by Christmas?” inquired Matt C, a Villa supporter, on X. Given that Bailey and Ramsey are not the first choices, I believe McGinn might start behind the striker. Is it better to go with Rogers, Buendia, or perhaps a promising new signing (Olmo, preferably) there? I sometimes wonder, even though I adore McGinn.”
Below is an extract from the discussion had on the podcast, but for the full conversation in its wider context, do check out the full episode.
John: “Now that we’re progressing so much, which is largely in part to John McGinn’s performances and leadership, I struggle with these questions a little bit. He’s still our captain. I can picture it in almost every game, him doing something that we wouldn’t have otherwise, whether it’s driving forward at a defence, turning away, winning a foul, breaking up play, something like that. That’s invaluable.”
Dan: “What I’ve seen as well is when fans build their best eleven and McGinn’s on the bench or ‘sold’ in this fantasy world. If he’s fit, he’s starting pretty much every game.”
John: “If we go off last season he’ll be playing in that role, that advanced midfield role, that is best position for me. There’s few players like him in the Premier League. Other Premier League players say he’s a nightmare to play against because of how he can roll you. His low centre of gravity is so hard to knock off the ball.
“I understand the question of increased competition but I think that goes for every player in the team. McGinn is no different. What I like about this situation is Emery is always happy to bring McGinn off if he feels like something else is needed. Bringing McGinn off isn’t something that raises eyebrows, whereas previously I think it might have been. Now we understand that we have options and McGinn is happy with that.
“I’d expect him to start every games if he’s fit. That is a worry of mine, that McGinn will suddenly become like a backseat player, I don’t see that. I think he’s fantastic.”
