Emery must hook McGinn at halftime v Southampton, he's a problem for Aston Villa

Unai Emery must hook John McGinn at half-time against Southampton at Villa Park on Saturday as he continues to have little influence on Aston Villa.

The Birmingham-based club are on course to build on their 3-1 victory over Brentford, having gone into the half-time break on 7 December with a one-goal lead courtesy of Jhon Duran.

However, nothing is set in stone as Emery's side have been guilty of conceding possession cheaply at times, keeping the Saints' hopes of a comeback alive, with McGinn contributing little to the team.

Emery must hook McGinn at halftime v Southampton, he's a problem for Aston Villa

According to Sofascore, the Scotland international lost possession five times, while only registering 16 touches [only one in the opposition box] in the first 45 minutes.

Although he created one chance from six of his completed passes [75 per cent accuracy], he had little impact at both ends of the pitch.

McGinn saw his only shot blocked by a defender, while only one of his three crosses found its target.

The 30-year-old registered only two defensive actions despite the Saints threatening on occasion. Not only did he not make any tackles, but also failed to make a single clearance or interception.

Furthermore, he only won one of his three four duels [25 per cent]. All of them were ground duels as he attempted none in the air.

The former Hibernian man is quickly becoming a problem for Aston Villa, having contributed one goal and two assists in 18 appearances across all competitions so far this season.

In other Aston Villa news, Monchi is expecting a busy January transfer window, with reinforcements in two positions eyed.

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