John McGinn injury blow prompts January window rethink for Aston Villa
Dean Smith has admitted John McGinn’s injury may force Villa to reconsider their plans for the January transfer window.
The influential midfielder is facing three months out with a fractured ankle sustained in Saturday’s 3-1 defeat to Southampton.
Villa, already looking to strengthen in attacking areas, may now also target reinforcements in the middle of the park.
Asked if losing McGinn had prompted a rethink ahead of the window, Smith replied: “Yeah, definitely. When you lose key players like McGinn and Tyrone Mings, who is out with a hamstring injury as well, it probably changes your stance a little bit in terms of the market and what you’re looking at.
“We’re all aware of how losing John affects the team, but while it gives the other lads opportunities, we’re also looking out there as well to see how we can improve the club.”
McGinn suffered the injury in the opening minutes of the loss to the Saints, a result which saw Villa fall into the Premier League relegation zone.
“He’s on crutches and he’s obviously very disappointed,” said Smith. “He’s a strong character though. He’ll come back a stronger person and a better player.
“For us it’s a big loss because he’s a big player to us, with his energy, drive and enthusiasm and the quality he has. He’ll be sorely missed. It gives opportunities to others now.”
Villa will also be without Mings for their crucial Boxing Day clash with Norwich, though Smith has not ruled the England international out of Saturday’s trip to Watford.
Mings has missed the last three matches with a hamstring injury.
