John McGinn has lived up to his responsibilities as the leader of the team as Aston Villa beat Fulham 3-1 at Villa Park. The ambition is to turn up the heat after a slow start to the campaign, and the Scotsman said that form “can change quickly” to put the players in contention for their targets.
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‘Hopefully that shuts a few people up’
Having missed a penalty on Thursday, the first choice number nine found a way to get his name on the scoresheet against the Cottagers. Ollie Watkins was even more frustrated at full time after coming off the bench against Bologna, but his effort would receive the reward that it deserved in this encounter.
Watkins worth every penny
Watkins was a record signing for the Villans in 2020, and he has been well worth the fee. The striker has not failed to register double digit strikes in the Premier League and acts as an all-around threat.
"He has had a lot of criticism in recent weeks but what he will get from us as team-mates and staff is love and support. What he has given us in recent seasons is nothing short of brilliant.”
The work rate and commitment of the seasoned striker always mean a lot to his teammates.
"He always has a spell in the season when it doesn't quite click for him but he runs a lot, he works hard and then when he gets the ball you expect he will score. Hopefully that shuts a few people up."
McGinn and Buendia seal the win
McGinn hit a go-ahead goal for the second time in a week before Emiliano Buendía built a two goal advantage at the start of the second half. Having just lost the unbeaten home record, the club captain commented on how the players pushed well to respond to a set-piece strike from Raúl Jiménez.
"Delighted but relieved at the same time. It has been a very poor start to the season. To lose 3-0 in the last home game was tough to take. We started well and we reacted well to conceding at the corner.”
Villa Park had witnessed a 3-0 humbling against Crystal Palace at the end of last month. Times have been tough for the team, but the backing of supporters can switch the vibe of the stadium significantly.
"It is not an easy place to play when the crowd are on your back but then when you get momentum, what a place it is to play. It was important to show belief and confidence in each other. What a win and what a huge show of character for us.”
The visit of Burnley and a flight to Feyenoord are on the schedule before the international break.
"It can change quickly [form] but we are not getting carried away. We have turned a little corner the last few games but that doesn't mean anything. It's about recovering now and then back here next Sunday to try and pick up another win in the league."
