Onana hails McGinn and Tielemans

Amadou Onana saluted returning duo John McGinn and Youri Tielemans after Aston Villa’s 2-0 victory over West Ham United.

Captain McGinn fired the Villans into a first-half lead against the Hammers at Villa Park – his second goal in four days since returning from injury.

Fit-again Tielemans then made his comeback as a second-half substitute in the Premier League encounter, as Villa claimed all three points to make it three wins in four matches in all competitions.

And Onana was glowing in his praise for his team-mates, speaking of his delight to have them back in Villa’s matchday ranks.

“John is a player who can do everything,” Onana told VillaTV post-match.

“He can defend, he can attack, he can shoot, he can pass.”

The Belgium international added: “I think these type of players are high-quality players; we know what Youri is capable of. I think I, personally, missed him a lot. The team as well.

“Adding someone like John McGinn, it just gives a different feel and we can create way more threat.”

Onana enjoyed an impressive afternoon in the middle of the park against the Hammers, gaining possession on five occasions – the most of any player.

One of those was crucial as he won the ball in his own half and found Morgan Rogers.

The exciting attacking midfielder duly surged forward, saw his shot parried and Ollie Watkins was on hand to bag Villa’s second of the afternoon in the 68^th minute, wrapping up a deserved victory for Unai Emery’s side.

Onana also won five of his seven tackles, eight of his 12 duels and had a 95 per cent passing accuracy.

“I think it was just one of those days where everything you try works out,” he said.

“But this is nothing but my job, that’s what they brought me here for and that’s what I try to do week in, week out.

“I just did an interception, which is part of my job, and then I give it to the likes of Morgan, Emi and those players to do their job.”