UNAI EMERY has challenged talisman John McGinn to remain consistent and help to inspire an Aston Villa resurgence.
Wednesday's win over Brentford ended an eight-game winless streak in all competitions for Emery's men, who are eighth and four points adrift of the top four.
McGinn's display in that game impressed Emery, who has previously acknowledged the midfielder has not been at his best for much of this campaign.
Now he hopes the Scotland international can help drive a sustained run of form, starting with the visit of Southampton today.
"He is a very important player for us," said Emery.
"And when he is not fit, he started the season a little bit lower than normal, we were struggling a bit.
This story is from the December 07, 2024 edition of Daily Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 07, 2024 edition of Daily Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Barkley banker
ROSS PUTS LAST 16 IN SIGHT
REACTION TIME
Dias demand in toughest spell
ART PLANNING TIERNEY TWEAK
KIERAN TIERNEY is in line for a shock Arsenal recall 16 months after his last appearance for the club.
HERE COMES THE BRYON
Bowling machine Carse has Ashes in his sights
DUTCH COURAGE
Love of the game keeps Van Leuven going
FREDDIE'S ON A GOLD HUNT
UNSTOPPABLE jockey Freddie Mitchell has jumped at the chance to make his December Gold Cup debut on Le Patron.
OW STANDING
Working on your feet all day is a real pain
Jamie's 'secret stroke'
ACTOR Jamie Foxx had a stroke after a dangerous bleed on the brain.
CAREFUL NOW TED
'Catholic club is too boozy
Emojis are write way to keep up
THEY ADD FEELINGS TO TEXTS