Aston Villa captain John McGinn told Sky Sports the club refuses to take the easy route, even with a Europa League final a match away. After a 1‑0 first‑leg loss at Nottingham Forest and a disappointing Premier League defeat to Tottenham, pressure mounts ahead of Thursday’s home second leg. McGinn, who sat out the Spurs game, expects to lead the side at Villa Park.

McGinn recalls scoring the decisive goal in last season’s 3‑2 Champions League win over Paris Saint‑Germain at Villa Park, a night that cemented his bond with the fans. Six of his seven goals this campaign have come at home, underscoring his knack for delivering under the lights. He stresses that a first goal Thursday would turn the stadium “absolutely rocking.”

Having signed a new contract earlier this season, McGinn says lifting silverware is his top priority. He admits the squad must improve dramatically from last week’s display, but believes the return of the striker who netted twice against Forest earlier will boost chances. For a club waiting 30 years for a trophy, the captain’s hunger remains the driving force.