Agbonlahor backs McGinn to thrive in new role as report claims Aston Villa set for shakeup
Gabby Agbonlahor insists John McGinn can perform as a number six with Aston Villa reportedly set to change his position this season.
The Villa icon, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, reacted as the Scotsman looks set for a tactical shakeup next season.
On 15th July, Birmingham Live claimed McGinn will be deployed as a defensive midfielder this term.
This is down to a few factors with Douglas Luiz not set to return from Olympic duty until mid-August at the earliest.
Marvellous Nakamba will also miss a month of action in January while on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Zimbabwe.
Assuming Villa don't sign any more midfielders, McGinn could end up covering each player while they are away with their countries.
Agbonlahor insists McGinn can play this role on a regular basis after playing there occasionally last season.
"In different games, he fits in different positions," Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
"If you're playing against a really good side he works well as a sitter with Nakamba.
"Playing against a weaker team he plays well as a number eight going forward. He can do it all.
"I think McGinn can fit into any position and that's what makes him so important to Aston Villa.
"He can play different roles in different games when the situation changes."
McGinn has played all over the midfield since he joined Villa and has also been used in various positions for Scotland.
He scored three goals and registered three assists in the Premier League last season.