‘Better than a new signing’ – Exclusive: Pundit buzzing over ‘Huge’ Aston Villa update
Noel Whelan has claimed that Aston Villa manager Dean Smith will be “overjoyed” to have John McGinn approaching a return to fitness.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds United striker suggested that the Scotland international could still have a “huge” role to play in Villa’s fight to remain in the Premier League.
Smith revealed on Thursday that McGinn is set to start training on grass again this weekend as he continues his comeback from a fractured ankle.
And Whelan believes it is a fantastic update for the Villans.
When asked about the significance of McGinn’s return during an interview with Football Insider, he said: “Huge. I can imagine Dean Smith will be overjoyed by the fact that McGinn will be not too far away because it’s getting to the business end of the season, and they’re in a fight.
“It’s really important that these sort of players come back in because we know that quality that they have, the energy they have, the tenacity they have. Also, creativity and scoring goals – he started the season off really well and then gets a horrific injury.
“But what a great time to be getting a player like that back – it’s better than a new signing. You know what he can do, you know he’s got the capability.”
McGinn suffered his a broken ankle during a Premier League clash against Southampton back in December.
Prior to that setback he had hit three goals and two assists in 18 league outings.
In other Aston Villa news, ‘Trust me’ – Alan Hutton makes Villa squad claim ahead of Southampton clash.