John McGinn is determined to prepare right for a return to action to ensure he is raring to go – admitting his recovery from a fractured ankle was the toughest spell of his career.
The Scotland international, an integral member of Aston Villa’s squad both on and off the pitch, sustained the injury against Southampton in late December.
And, following the suspension of Premier League football in mid-March, McGinn has been forced out of competitive action longer than originally anticipated.
In an interview with VillaTV, the midfielder is happy to now be back at Bodymoor Heath preparing for the campaign to restart so he can hit the ground running.
“I was itching to get back, I think everyone will tell you that,” he said.
“It’s given me a little bit more time to get my body right, get my ankle right, so in that sense it’s probably worked out better for me.
“At the same time, it will be nearly six months without a game for Villa.
“The longest I’ve ever been out injured, so it’s been something new for me and something I don’t really want to repeat.
“It’s important I use the time that we have now to prepare right so that when the games do return, I’m there and I’m raring to go.”
McGinn insists the feeling around the group is one of positivity, with everyone confident and “champing at the bit” to get the club out of the position it’s in.
Asked about being back at Villa’s training HQ, he added: “It’s been nice, you obviously miss the banter with the lads.
“It’s been very different with the small groups of training rather than a big group, but it’s allowed the manager to work on different areas – individual strengths and weaknesses.
“We can only take the positives out of it, we’re all healthy, getting fit and prepared to get back to play.”
McGinn also talks about what it’s been like for him during lockdown, brushing up on his FIFA skills, reflects on the season so far, his strong relationship with Villa fans and his favourite goal in a claret and blue shirt.
You can watch the full interview now at VillaTV, click here.
