John McGinn Says Knee Scare Nearly Cost Him World Cup as Rapid Return Lifts Aston Villa

His comments point to a squad trying to match richer rivals under spending rules that curb Villa’s outlay.

Overview

McGinn told BBC Scotland he felt "scared" after his January knee injury, fearing he would not be fit in time for the World Cup.
He was hurt in a 1-0 home loss to Everton, had knee surgery, was given a six-to-eight week timeline, and returned in six.
Since returning, he scored against Lille in the Europa League second leg and put Aston Villa ahead against West Ham.
Aston Villa have booked a European quarter-final for a third straight year under Unai Emery.
He said Villa face "massive" clubs that can spend far more, highlighting financial rules that limit the club’s budget compared with some rivals.