‘Phenomenal’: BBC pundit says 27-year-old Aston Villa player has improved so much

Wed 30 March 2022 18:15, UK

Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn has been praised by BBC Sport pundit Billy Dodds for his latest Scotland display.

The Villans star helped his nation secure a 2-2 draw away at Austria in their international friendly.

McGinn whipped in a superb corner which led to Jack Hendry’s opener just before half-hour mark.

The Villa ace then made it two with a powerful shot high into the net on 56 minutes.

However, Austria pegged Scotland back, scoring in the 75th and 82nd minute to secure a draw.

The Villa ace also came close to scoring with two first-half efforts, and delivered a typical box-to-box performance.

McGinn has played all eight games in Scotland’s unbeaten streak, highlighting his importance to his nation.

Dodds, speaking on BBC Sportsound after the match, waxed lyrical about the Villa Park star.

He noted how much McGinn has improved since first breaking into the Scotland team.

“When John McGinn first got in the team he had a habit of losing possession,” said Dodds ().

“He has developed and become the most complete Scotland player I’ve seen in a long time.

“He gets about the pitch, is so strong, he’s added goals to his game.

“A phenomenal player. He’s my first name on the teamsheet.”

McGinn will now return to Villa duty as Steven Gerrard’s charges look to finish the season strongly.

The Villans are currently ninth in the Premier League table, though they have lost their last two games.

Villa are next in action on Saturday afternoon when they travel to West Midlands rivals Wolves.

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