Scottish media react to John McGinn display away from Aston Villa

Aston Villa's John McGinn played a big role in Scotland's win over North Macedonia.

The 31-year-old has been coming in for some rare criticism for both club and country of late.

Indeed, he's yet to score his first goal of the Premier League season for Unai Emery's side.

Meanwhile, his previous two Nations League performances for Scotland weren't anything to particularly write home about.

Scotland boss Sebastien Pocognoli stuck with the experienced attacker against North Macedonia on Saturday evening though.

That would prove to be a very wise decision, and Scottish media have been in agreement on the performance he delivered in Skopje.

What did Scottish media say about John McGinn's Scotland display?

Scotland picked up their first win of this Nations League campaign against North Macedonia on Saturday.

Kieron Bowie gave the Tartan Army the lead after seven minutes, before McGinn made sure of the points from the penalty spot in the 70th minute.

Scottish media were all waxing lyrical over the Villa star's performance, on what turned out to be a milestone night for him in a Scotland shirt.

The Scotsman wrote: "Recent performances had led to scrutiny for the Aston Villa captain, but Pocognoli kept faith with the midfielder and he delivered.

"The 31-year-old bossed the midfield and a neat cushion header teed up the move for Bowie's opener. Scored his 22nd goal for Scotland from the penalty spot midway through the second half, reaching the total of Lawrie Reilly. A fine night's work. Nine."

The National said: "Answered a lot of recent criticism with a much more characteristic John McGinn display in Skopje.

"Industrious in midfield and with the licence to roam in advanced positions. Immense in the press to pin North Macedonia back and snatch possession.

"Will be renewed with confidence after getting his name back on the scoresheet with a pressure penalty to kill the contest. Eight."

Finally, the Scottish Sun said: "Moved clear of Jim Leighton into third in all-time appearance list after collecting 92nd cap.

"Lovely diagonal pass set up early Robbo chance. Involved in Bowie opener and calmly slotted home pen…eight."

So, just how good were McGinn's numbers from the win over North Macedonia?

Where McGinn led all players in North Macedonia vs Scotland

It wasn't just his goal that ensured McGinn stood out on Saturday night, as his all-round performance was superb.

Per FotMob, no player on the pitch created more chances than McGinn's four in Skopje.

Meanwhile, he also completed 87 per cent of his passes, created two big chances, had four shots on goal and played six passes into the final third.

McGinn completed his two dribble attempts successfully, attempted five crosses, made six recoveries and won nine of his 10 ground duels.

Emery will be delighted and relieved to see McGinn back to his best for his country, as he's going to need him as such back at Villa Park.