The midfielder for Aston Villa is happy to be competing for a spot in Europe.
The opportunity to qualify for Europe for the first time in more than ten years is something that Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn confesses they did not think was attainable six months ago.
After a 1-1 draw at Anfield, their fate regarding securing a berth in the Europa Conference League remains in their own hands. Manager Unai Emery took over from Steven Gerrard in late October with the club 15th in the Premier League.
McGinn, who proclaimed that "every day is a school day" under the Spaniard, acknowledges that at the beginning of winter, that prospect appeared unlikely.
It has been the goal from the beginning. Our return to European football has been a goal of the owners, he stated.
It has been the goal from the beginning. Our return to European football has been a goal of the owners, he stated.
"You would have laughed if we had told you that we would be three points behind back in November. To get us back, we need to win three points.
"This club deserves to be in the top 10, and we've finally been able to do that for a very, very long period.
"Now it's about building, hopefully getting into Europe and building from there."
McGinn praised Emery's turnaround, noting that in his 24 games as manager, he had won 14 and lost just six.
"It was a challenge for us and a test. We must visit locations like these and perform well if we want to play in Europe, he added.
Next week (at home against Brighton), we've given ourselves a great opportunity; ideally, we seize it.
"Now that it's in our hands, we know that three points will secure our place in Europe.
"The manager touched on it; he has extensive knowledge of European football. I'm confident that everyone associated with the club will be intensely focused this week to ensure that's a reality.
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