John McGinn could feature for Aston Villa against Brentford (credit: Imago)
Wed 4 December 2024 17:11, UK
John McGinn must start for Aston Villa against Brentford after performing well in the 3-3 draw between the two sides last season.
The Villans return to Villa Park on Wednesday (4 December) in the hopes of securing a first win since October as the Bees travel to the West Midlands.
Thomas Frank’s side have the joint worst away record in the Premier League and represent a prime opportunity to secure a much-needed three points.
Ahead of the clash, Unai Emery needs to keep his faith in his captain after he had a telling impact the last time the two sides met.
John McGinn must start for Aston Villa v Brentford
The Bees travelled to B6 in April and came away with a point despite the home side going 2-0 up after just 46 minutes.
Just seven minutes later, Frank’s men were 3-2 up before Ollie Watkins grabbed an equaliser late on to save an undeserved point.
Regardless of throwing away the three points, the Villa skipper still put in a positive performance, which could point to him keeping his place this time around.
The 30-year-old registered 62 touches across his 90-minute showing and he was able to complete 37 passes with an 86 per cent accuracy which will have impressed Emery [FotMob].
These passes didn’t go without reason as the Scotland international created two chances while also contributing with four crosses.
This allowed him to grab an assist for the opening goal which put the Villans in front in a positive showing.
McGinn also contributed defensively with three interceptions and three recoveries while also winning two duels up against the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa.
This is proof that the Villa captain can perform at a top level against Brentford despite having a difficult day last time out at Stamford Bridge.
He did still maintain an 89 per cent pass accuracy which will please his manager and could see him handed a chance from the start at Villa Park on Wednesday.
In other Aston Villa news, a shortlist is ready for two new transfers in the January window.
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