Aston Villa will be delighted as John McGinn edges towards Scotland history v Croatia
John McGinn is arguably one of the most underrated midfielders in the Premier League, but the Aston Villa star made sure all eyes were on him in the game between Scotland and Croatia.
The Tartan Army took on Zlatko Dalic’s team in the Nations League on 15 November, with an 86th-minute goal from McGinn handing the home team victory.
With world beaters like Luka Modric on the pitch, it was the Lions’ midfielder who stole the show after finding the back of the net at Hampden Park as the game ended 1-0.
Villa are struggling at the moment after losing four on the bounce in all competitions, and McGinn hasn’t been at his best, but it was still a surprise that the midfielder started on the bench for the Tartan Army.
The 30-year-old came on just after the hour mark as his country were struggling to break down the opposition and made history when he found the back of the net, equalling Ally McCoist’s goal tally of 19 as the fifth-highest goalscorer for Scotland [BBC, 15 November].
Aston Villa will hope John McGinn continues Scotland heroics
McGinn played 23 minutes against Croatia, scoring a goal with his solo shot, showcasing the efficiency of the midfielder, and completed 80 per cent of his passes, as per FotMob.
The 30-year-old had an xG of 0.2, which highlights the quality of his strike, and overall had 14 touches, played one pass into the final third and 100 per cent successful dribbles,
McGinn also contributed defensively, attempting one tackle, winning two of his three duels and committing one foul as well.
With the likes of Scott McTominay losing four duels in midfield, it was crucial for the Scots that McGinn stood up when he was needed.
The 30-year-old will undoubtedly be in high spirits, and the Villa faithful will want him to lead the team out of their slump when they go up against Crystal Palace on 23 November in the Premier League.
In other Aston Villa news, Dan Bardell moots a move away for Louie Barry from the club.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.