John McGinn backs Aston Villa to beat Nottingham Forest in Europa League
Aston Villa captain John McGinn believes his side can overturn a first-leg deficit against Nottingham Forest at Villa Park to reach the Europa League final.
The Midlands club currently trail 1-0 following a tense opening semi-final encounter at the City Ground.
The Premier League outfit also suffered a damaging domestic defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
Home advantage crucial for progression
McGinn missed the recent league setback as a precaution but will return to lead the team on Thursday.
The 31-year-old Scotland international expects a fierce atmosphere under the lights in Birmingham.
“We worked hard to get the second legs at home, that was a big aim.”
“This is a special place, and if we get that first goal then this place will be absolutely rocking.”
Six of the midfielder’s seven goals this season have been scored on home soil.
He previously found the net at this ground during a thrilling 3-2 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in last season’s Champions League campaign.
Ending the long wait for silverware
The former Hibernian star is no stranger to ending historic trophy droughts throughout his career.
He won the Scottish League Cup with St Mirren to end a 26-year wait, before helping Hibs secure their first Scottish Cup in 114 years.
The Villa Park faithful have not celebrated a major honour in 30 years.
“It would mean everything, I know what it means to people.”
The industrious playmaker acknowledged the recent dip in form but insists the squad remains confident of European success.
“It is Aston Villa, we don’t make things easy for ourselves.”
“We have given ourselves a little bit of a harder job but we are confident we will still get through.”