No excuses as McGinn insists: We are a very good team!

JOHN McGinn insists Villa's frustration with financial regulations is no excuse for their poor start to the season, and has called for unity.

- By JOHN TOWNLEY

The club captain fronted up following the 1-0 defeat at Brentford on Saturday, which came after a goalless draw against Newcastle on the opening weekend.

Those results mean Villa have failed to win either of their opening two Premier League games for the first time since the 2019/20 season. It is also the first time since 2002/03 that they have failed to score.

"We aren't creating clear chances, we're not opening up teams, and players are not playing at their best," said McGinn. "It is very early on, we can't panic, but we need to improve.

"We know we are still a very good team. It is very easy to start panicking and changing what we have built over the past few years. We need to stay strong.

"At home, we know we need to create more chances and score more goals. We know what we need to do.