Aston Villa captain John McGinn has identified Arsenal's Riccardo Calafiori and Manchester United's Luke Shaw as the two toughest defenders he has faced during his career.
The 31-year-old has been with Villa since 2018, making over 330 appearances for the club in all competitions. The Scotland international is now in his eighth season as a Premier League player, and has also featured in the Champions League and won the Europa League last season.
Surprise picks from McGinn
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, McGinn was asked to name his most difficult opponent and offered two names. He said: 'Do you know who really surprised me? Calafiori. Calafiori and Luke Shaw would be my two hardest opponents.'
Explaining his reasoning, he added: 'Luke Shaw because I needed to completely adapt my game with Luke Shaw. Because we're of similar build. He's one I had to completely try and adapt [to]. Calafiori was much stronger than I thought, I was really impressed with him.'
Konsa and Madjo praise
McGinn also gave a shout-out to another Arsenal player, naming Ezri Konsa as his most underrated teammate. Konsa left Villa for the Gunners this summer, and McGinn said: 'Ezri Konsa, but now he's starting to get it [recognition]. What a player.'
When asked for his tip to be the next big thing, McGinn picked out Villa's 17-year-old striker Brian Madjo, who stands at 6'4". Madjo has already scored in the UEFA Super Cup against PSG earlier this month.
'I'd have to say Brian Madjo,' said McGinn. 'If he keeps going the way he possibly could… Probably the hardest thing for a young, English player in Birmingham is staying away from the distractions. I spoke to Brian last week. I'm far from perfect, I like a pint from time to time, could I do more in the gym? Yes. 100 per cent. But if he stays away from the nightlife in Birmingham and has the right people around him, he could be seriously, seriously good. That's what I think.'
Madjo is currently out of action with a 'small injury' but is expected to return in September.
