Scottish media react after what ‘tremendous’ Aston Villa star John McGinn did vs Denmark
Aston Villa captain John McGinn started for Scotland in their World Cup qualifier against Denmark on Friday night.
McGinn was linked with a Villa exit to Everton over the summer, but ultimately stuck around and remains a key player at Villa Park.
This has seen McGinn be favoured over Donyell Malen for Villa, as Unai Emery often opts for the experience of the Scot on the right flank.
This is exactly where the 30-year-old operated under Steve Clarke for his country as the Tartan Army faced off against Denmark on 5 September.
McGinn started in Copenhagen, with the local media now speaking out on the Villa skipper’s performance in a 0-0 draw.
Aston Villa star John McGinn shines for Scotland vs Denmark
There is concern surrounding McGinn at Villa after Harvey Elliott signed from Liverpool, raising questions of who plays where with a fully fit squad.
With that being said, it is clear that it isn’t something that is worrying the midfielder, who is instead focusing solely on his own game.
This was certainly on show for Scotland against Denmark as the Villans’ captain was generally excellent throughout his 90-minute showing at Parken Stadium.
| Stat vs Denmark | John McGinn |
| Shots | 2 |
| Chances created | 3 |
| Defensive contributions | 6 |
| Duels won | 4 |
It is fair to say that this wasn’t lost on the Scottish media, with McGinn being rated highly by the majority of outlets for his performance, something which the claret and blue faithful will love to see.
Scottish media share glowing reviews of John McGinn
The Scotsman awarded McGinn an eight out of 10 rating, while also praising the Villa star for his persistence as he “Never, ever stopped going”.
It is fair to say that this was the general feeling around his performance, with The Herald also speaking in glowing terms about the Villa star’s talent.
They said: “Ran himself into the ground playing wide on the left, having plenty of defensive duties. Retained possession well and maintained a threat when Scotland looked to counter.
“Impressed when winning the ball back before crossing brilliantly for Christie during the first half, in a big chance for the visitors. Helped the Scots get off to an encouraging start after the break, which saw his shot blocked.”
The Scottish Sun was also full of praise for the versatile midfielder, saying: “Showed tremendous strength to win some balls he had no right to get near.
“Should have done better with his chance from Ferguson’s corner but saw another effort deflected wide by Maehle.”
All these positive reviews can only be seen as a boost to his already excellent reputation, something which McGinn will be hoping to replicate against Belarus next time out.
There is no doubt that Emery will be happy to see these positive reviews, something which could stand him in good stead when returning to Bodymoor Heath.
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