John McGinn is now in the Premier League elite as impressive stats emerge vs Bournemouth
Aston Villa captain John McGinn is ageing like fine wine after his performance in the 4-0 win over Bournemouth on Sunday.
Goals from Emi Buendia, Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley, and Donyell Malen have lifted Unai Emery’s side into sixth place in the Premier League for the final international break of the year.
McGinn was linked with Everton in the summer, yet that move never materialised for the 30-year-old, leaving Emery thrilled that he could keep his star man in midfield.
After doubts were cast over his future, McGinn signed a three-year contract that will keep him at Villa Park until 2028.
Following Aston Villa’s rampant win over Bournemouth, the Scottish midfielder’s importance was highlighted once again as he topped several impressive stats in the match.
John McGinn proves his worth vs Bournemouth
Since joining Villa in 2018, McGinn has been instrumental in taking the team from the Championship to the Champions League.
He was absolutely superb against the Cherries, and at this stage, he is playing as good as some of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
McGinn completed 94 per cent of his passes, whilst winning the most duels and creating the most chances of any player in the match.
| Stat | John McGinn |
| Minutes played | 71 |
| Pass accuracy | 17/18 (94%) |
| Chances created | 3 |
| Ground duels won | 7/11 (64%) |
The 31-year-old has often been the hero for Villa in the past, yet this season, his performances are going under the radar.
Despite being a natural central midfielder, he has excelled on the left wing this season, playing an inverted role that opposition teams have struggled to deal with.
McGinn won four fouls against Bournemouth, whilst also making three tackles and two recoveries.
Often described as a bulldog in the heart of the midfield, McGinn is quickly establishing himself as one of the most influential players in the Premier League.
John McGinn’s importance to Aston Villa is unmatched
Declan Rice at Arsenal and Moises Caicedo at Chelsea are irreplaceable players, should they be injured or suspended for their clubs.
McGinn is entering that category for Emery, and his versatility in many different positions is absolutely outstanding, taking him into the elite status.
In his first seven seasons in B6, the Scottish midfielder has made at least 30 appearances in each campaign, and availability is often a player’s greatest strength.
The Bournemouth match highlighted all of his strengths in abundance, and the news that he will remain at Villa Park until he is at least 34 will be excellent for the supporters.
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