Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has named John McGinn as his team captain in place of England defender Tyrone Mings.
The former Liverpool midfielder had hinted strongly last season that he would soon change the captain hierarchy at Villa Park. He has now promoted McGinn to being captain, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as vice-captain and Ashley Young as the third captain.
Speaking about the situation, Gerrard said, “Naturally, I have had to have a discussion with Tyrone Mings and have explained my reasons for making this decision.
“More importantly, I believe that not having the responsibility of the captaincy will allow Tyrone to focus more on his own game, which can only benefit him and the team.
He added: “John has demonstrated that he is ready to take on the captaincy through his performances on the pitch combined with his attitude and application in training.
“He is a popular member of the dressing room who sets high standards and expectations of himself.
“Emi is a respected senior member of the squad while Ashley Young’s experience speaks for itself, and he is the perfect ambassador for the first team.’
Gerrard was full of praise for McGinn from early in his reign at Villa Park, and it is no surprise to see the Scot become the skipper in place of Mings, who Gerrard hopes will concentrate on his defending job.
Former boss Dean Smith gave the 29-year-old defender the captain’s job, but Gerrard never appeared utterly convinced by that decision.
After the news was confirmed by the club’s Twitter account, Mings took to Twitter to respond to Gerrard’s decision.
“For me, this isn’t about John or I, it’s about what’s right for Aston Villa,” he said.
“I have no issues with the manager’s decision; I’ve loved leading this team. Anyone who knows @jmcginn7 knows how infectious he is and it will be an honour to play underneath his captaincy.”
