Scottish newspapers react to John McGinn’s performance v Ukraine as Aston Villa captain struggles
Scotland managed promoton in the Nations League after their 0-0 draw with Ukraine, but Aston Villa captain John McGinn had a very quiet showing in Poland.
After a week plagued by injuries and illnesses, Scotland took on Ukraine on Tuesday evening knowing a promotion in the Nations League was up for grabs.
McGinn was named in the starting lineup as an attacking midfielder, but the 27-year-old was unable to influence the scoreline and ended up falling back into defence.
Scottish newspapers have delivered their verdict on his performance.
The Scottish Herald handed the Aston Villa captain a 6/10 rating, but said he “often found himself crowded out when in possession”. Additionally, he “struggled to get on the ball”.
The Scottish Sun echoed the 6/10 rating, and also criticised McGinn for his inability to impact the game going forward despite being “virtually a striker”. He also lacked any “inspirational moment”.
Despite starting in an advanced role, McGinn was “driven further and further back” according to the Daily Record, who rated his performance 7/10.
Job done
While McGinn didn’t exactly stand out on the pitch for Steve Clarke’s side, his leadership in the Scotland lineup was crucial to helping them over the line.
McGinn thrived in a more attacking role against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday, but the nature of Tuesday’s match meant Scotland were always more likely to sit back and defend.
Frankly, where Aston Villa fans are concerned, McGinn will likely take more confidence out of Scotland’s promotion and going unbeaten this week than he will out of any individual performances.
Overall it’s been a much better week for the Glasgow-born midfielder, and he should return to Villa Park this week in a much better mindset than he was when he left.
As the club’s newly-appointed captain, it’s crucial that McGinn is at the top of his game, especially as Villa need to turn around their poor start to the season.
Having shown Steven Gerrard just how effective he is in a more attacking role this week, hopefully that’s where McGinn starts against Leeds United this weekend.
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