Why Roberto Martinez's John McGinn admission is significant for Aston Villa amid Scotland links

Aston Villa's John McGinn will head into the next international break with a new manager.

Following Scotland's World Cup exit, Steve Clarke has since stepped down as manager of the Tartan Army.

For McGinn, it is a significant decision as he has become a key figure for his nation throughout the years.

And when a new manager comes in, no matter how good you are, there is a risk of you not being in their plans.

But, McGinn may not have anything to worry about as Roberto Martinez' name continues to be attached to the job.

The former Portugual boss has previously singled out McGinn in what would be good news for Villa.

Why Roberto Martínez's Scotland links are good news for Aston Villa

McGinn as Aston Villa captain already garners plenty of respect, but his role on the international stage furthers that.

McGinn is already a star for Scotland but he could be set to win even more away from Aston Villa.

With Martinez's move to Scotland "having legs" according to talkSPORT, the midfielder will undoubtedly be keeping an eye on things.

Back in 2024, McGinn was one of a just a few Scotland players that had caught the eye of the then-Portugal manager.

He stated before Scotland played Portugal in the Nations League, via BBC Sport: "Obviously Andrew Robertson, for me, is still one of the best full-backs in European football and you've got a lot of players now in the Premier League, like John McGinn, Ryan Christie.

"The amount of players that you have playing week in, week out in the Premier League speaks volumes for the quality of these players."

McGinn would go on a prove that he had that quality, even though Scotland lost 2-1.

Against the eventual Nations League winners, McGinn as per Sofascore, won eight out of 13 duels, a 61.5 per cent success rate.

Additionally, he won 100 per cent of his two tackles attempted and managed to win five fouls for his nation.

So, while McGinn was pointed out before the game, he certainly would have left a bigger impression after the fact.

Why Aston Villa benefit from McGinn playing for Scotland

While many might believe it is better for players to get a rest rather than play for their nation, the confidence a call-up brings is just as helpful.

And if Martinez is appointed, then McGinn would once more be under the wing of a manager who holds immense respect for him.

Statistically, at the age of 31, McGinn is nearing a total of 100 caps for Scotland. So the arrival of manager, who rates him highly, could quicken up the push from his 89 current caps.

Every boost for a player who holds the quality of McGinn will certainly be accepted. And Villa could reap the residual rewards.