McGinn lauds ‘unbelievable’ Champions League achievement

John McGinn beamed with pride after Aston Villa secured their spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League with a 4-2 win over Liverpool.

The Villa skipper netted in the closing stages to round off an unforgettable night as Unai Emery’s men defeated the reigning Premier League champions in Villa Park’s final game of the campaign.

And, after sealing qualification for the Champions League for the second time in three seasons, McGinn lauded the size of the achievement.

“We had to get over the line, the last few league performances haven’t been the best,” the Scotsman admitted.

“We were up against a top side. I know Liverpool aren’t in great form, but it’s a huge performance at home and a great statement of intent for Wednesday.  

“We’ve just made this club a Champions League club again, and it allows us to be excited and enjoy the game Wednesday properly.

“We’ve got a chance to get a bit of silverware, but the fact this club’s in the Champions League next season is an unbelievable achievement again.”

Villa’s next game will see them travel to Istanbul for the final of the Europa League on Wednesday, presenting an opportunity for McGinn to lift Villa’s first trophy in over 30 years.

The 31-year-old has called for the Villans to remain focused heading into the clash, the likes of which he dreamed about playing in as a child.

He added: “It’ll be the pinnacle of my Aston Villa career, and hopefully by the end of the game, I’ve got my hands on that trophy, and that’s what we’re going to have to do.

“The supporters have got to enjoy it. We’ll enjoy the build-up to a certain extent, and then when it gets closer to Wednesday, we’ll start to focus on the gameplan and what we need to do to win.

“We’re obviously slight favourites going into the game, but in finals anything can happen, so we need to stay focused and play the game, not the occasion.

“It’s what you dream of when you’re young – to be playing in games like this and playing in finals. So, you’ve got to enjoy it, but you’ve got to succeed at the same time.”