Aston Villa captain John McGinn has had a remarkable week, making headlines after Roy Keane's criticism and scoring a World Cup goal against Haiti. Now, another former Villa assistant boss has shared his thoughts.
McAllister's Praise for McGinn
Gary McAllister, who worked with McGinn during Steven Gerrard's tenure at Villa Park, spoke highly of the midfielder. He told Boyle Sports: "At Villa, McGinn jumped out at us as the natural leader of the group. Not the most talented - there were some real good players there."
McAllister highlighted McGinn's humility and work ethic: "He makes a difference by saying hello to everybody, being friendly with the groundsman, the kit lady, the chefs - everybody. He had a manner in the way he conducted himself about the place. He was liked and he was very, very humble."
McGinn comes from a footballing family and has a deep knowledge of the game. McAllister added: "He comes from a big Scottish footballing family, all his brothers play, so he's got a knowledge of football but he's humble and he works hard and he gives you everything."
World Cup Heroics
McGinn scored the only goal in Scotland's 1-0 win over Haiti in their World Cup opener in Foxborough. Despite Haiti dominating the second half, Scotland held on for three points.
This came after Roy Keane's criticism of McGinn earlier in the week, which sparked angry responses from fans and former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor.
A Natural Leader
McAllister concluded: "When John McGinn is firing, he takes some handling. He's got power and he's definitely got a goal and a pass, he can score a goal, make a goal."
