MCGINN DEMAND

Unai wants Mr Consistent back

- BRENDAN MOLOUGHLIN

UNAI EMERY has challenged talisman John McGinn to remain consistent and help to inspire an Aston Villa resurgence.

Wednesday's win over Brentford ended an eight-game winless streak in all competitions for Emery's men, who are eighth and four points adrift of the top four.

McGinn's display in that game impressed Emery, who has previously acknowledged the midfielder has not been at his best for much of this campaign.

Now he hopes the Scotland international can help drive a sustained run of form, starting with the visit of Southampton today.

"He is a very important player for us," said Emery.

"And when he is not fit, he started the season a little bit lower than normal, we were struggling a bit.