Aston Villa ace John McGinn believes there is one area where they must improve this season.

McGinn believes the key for his team to take the next step is getting better at breaking down defensive sides.

Unai Emery's team have been outstanding on the counter attack since he took charge last season, but do struggle when given a lot of possession by the opposition.

Per the Express and Star, McGinn said: “When teams come and sit deep, defend with five and six, that's where we need to improve.

“We need to be more patient, make more runs. It's something we're aware of and we're working hard on but like the manager says all the time we are progressing as a team, we're getting there."

McGinn added: “We're not quite there yet [Champions League qualification] but we're giving ourselves a chance to be right in the mix for some special things."