John McGinn has thanked Aston Villa fans on Instagram for their support in Brisbane, after a controversial pre-season encounter against Leeds United on Sunday.
In the second half of Villa’s 1-0 win against Leeds, teenager Archie Gray was stretched off following a tackle from McGinn.
Jesse Marsch looked dumbfounded on the touchline given that he was watching one of his youngsters being stretched off in a pre-season game, whilst Steven Gerrard defended Villa’s all-action midfielder and pointed out that Gray himself made a not too dissimilar tackle on Emi Buendia earlier on in the game.
Either way, this was the nine-word message McGinn posted to fans, as Villa continue their pre-season plans in Australia.
MCGINN TO GET A WARM WELCOME AT ELLAND ROAD NEXT SEASON?
Ever since Leeds United awarded Aston Villa with an uncontested goal in the Championship a number of seasons ago, the rivalry between the two clubs has gone up a few levels.
Whether it’s Jack Grealish or Patrick Bamford, both fans always have a Villain to focus on, well McGinn might be the next one in line.
Last season, when Steven Gerrard’s side beat Leeds 3-0 at Elland Road, a certain Tyrone Mings was given a toxic reception by the home fans.
The England international had the last laugh because Villa walked away with the points, but McGinn will probably get the same reception next season.
Whatever your viewpoint is on the tackle, there has been quite a reaction to it, and whilst it’s overblown, it’s something fans aren’t going to forget, that’s for sure.
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