Aston Villa fans can rejoice as John McGinn provides updated comeback date
John McGinn could return to full fitness much sooner than Aston Villa thought.
McGinn was forced off in the 18th minute of Aston Villa’s 1-0 defeat to Everton on 18 January, before undergoing tests to determine the extent of the knee injury.
The 31-year-old went on to have surgery on his knee, and it was initially thought he would be out until the end of March.
With eight goal contributions in all competitions, he has been a huge miss, and there is no doubt that Villa are desperate for him to be available again.
However, McGinn has just provided an update on his injury, and Villa fans will be thrilled to see their captain back in the side over the next few weeks.
John McGinn could return to action in 2-3 weeks
McGinn has become a modern-day legend at Villa Park, making 316 appearances since his move from Scottish side Hibernian in 2018.
Speaking on the Scottish Football Social Club podcast on 23 February, he provided a new update on his current condition.
He said: “I’ve been trying to stay under the radar, and I’m trying to get back to full fitness.
| Stat | McGinn |
| Minutes played | 1,607 |
| Pass accuracy | 82.1% |
| Chances created | 24 |
| Ground duels won | 83 |
| Fouls won | 38 |
| Touches | 881 |
“The recovery is going well, the surgery was very straightforward, and I’m ready to get back into it.
“The maximum I was told I’d be out for was eight weeks, and it’s four weeks tomorrow since I had the surgery.
“I’m well on my way, and hopefully I’ll be back in two or three weeks.
His potential return could come in time for the clash against Man United on 15 March, and this would be a huge boost for Villa’s Champions League hopes.
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The numbers that show just how important McGinn is to Villa
Although others may get more plaudits, McGinn’s role under Unai Emery is as important as anyone in the squad.
He has played as a right-winger this campaign, but his qualities as a tenacious midfielder are a huge bonus for Villa out of possession.
According to Sofascore, he has made 27 tackles and 11 interceptions from a wide position, which is a brilliant return.
With 70 recoveries and 13 clearances, it’s clear that the Scotland international is a huge asset from a defensive standpoint.
However, the fact that he’s won the ball 17 times in the final third is a huge sign that he will improve the team’s fortunes when he fully recovers from his injury.
Villa are in a good position to qualify for next year’s Champions League, but McGinn’s swift return puts them in an even better place to finish in the top five.
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