John has been key reason for my step up

Rory hails Scots stalwart for helping him settle and star for club and country

- SCOTT BURNS

SCOTLAND Under-21 new boy Rory Wilson admits John McGinn has been a big influence on him since moving to Aston Villa.

The teenage striker has made a stunning start to life with Villa's youth teams and is also stepping through the levels internationally.

The ultimate goal is following in the footsteps of his club captain for Villa and Scotland.

Wilson said: "I speak to John now and again. He's good with all the young Scottish boys at Villa. He's a top guy.

"I've scored 12 goals this season so I need to try and push on. We'll wait and see how many goals I score. I take it game by game.

"I don't have that much involvement with the first team, just now and again.

"But I think it's really important if I get the opportunity to take it and learn as much as I can.

"I've enjoyed it. There are good challenges with the 18s and 21s so it's just a case of me pushing on.