Aston Villa: 100% John McGinn shining as David James makes ‘Player of the Season’ claim
David James has insisted John McGinn could be named the Premier League player of the season after his performances for Aston Villa this year.
With Aston Villa flying towards the top of the table, and the possibility to be in top spot at Christmas, McGinn has received plaudits for his consistency and influence under Unai Emery.
Four goals and two assists in 17 Premier League games don’t go far enough to display how impressive he has been, and how he has earned such high praise from the likes of James.
“John McGinn, I’ve got to say, John McGinn will be in the shake-up for Player of the Season”, insisted James, speaking to Sky Sports News [19 December]. “He has had a stellar, stellar season so far. Heavily involved in everything, it seems for Aston Villa.”
Looking at McGinn’s last three Premier League appearances, in the wins against Brentford, Arsenal and Manchester City, his involvement both on and off the ball is exemplified by the number of duels he competes in.
He has been involved in 60 duels in his last three league games, winning 32 of those. On top of this, he made 13 tackles to break up play despite his more advanced position where you would expect deeper-lying players like Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara to carry most of the defensive weight. [Sofascore]
McGinn’s 100% dribble success against both Manchester City and Brentford shows he has stepped his game up another level in possession, while he has also drawn nine fouls, such is the success of his ability on the ball.
His game has been taken up a level under Emery’s guidance, and he has become more effective in both boxes despite his more advanced position on the pitch. That new role trusted to the captain has allowed him to thrive.
Having such a crucial influence on a team flying high despite the expectations of many will certainly put him in the conversation, as James says, for Premier League Player of the Season.
In other Aston Villa news, a 0% flop may be forced to quit in January with Emery not convinced.