John McGinn strikes again as Aston Villa battle past Feyenoord in Europa League

McGinn struck late to secure Villa's second successive win in the competition, following Emi Buendia's opener early in the second half. The Scottish midfielder has now scored in three consecutive matches, helping Villa record three wins in a row across all competitions.

Emery, a four-time Europa League winner, praised his skipper's influence on and off the pitch. Speaking to TNT Sports, he said: "His challenge as captain is something more than tactically and individually. He is playing with a lot of emotions. He responds in difficult moments. He is very important in the dressing room, always happy and always smiling.

"When we need more than tactical and individual performances, he is always bringing positive energy."

Villa had to survive heavy pressure before the interval as Feyenoord created a series of chances. Stand-in goalkeeper Marco Bizot, signed in the summer from Brest, produced a superb display after stepping in for the injured Emi Martinez, who was withdrawn with a calf problem just before kick-off.

Bizot made eight saves in total, earning Emery's praise.

"The goalkeeper was fantastic," Emery said. "He is a very good guy and goalkeeper and he is accepting his role. With six players out, the others responded fantastically. It was fantastic how Bizot replaced Martinez."

Feyenoord were left furious in the first half when Ayase Ueda's 35th-minute header was controversially disallowed. Referee Rade Obrenovic blew for a foul on Villa's Matty Cash, but replays suggested minimal contact. Feyenoord boss Robin van Persie later claimed the official apologised.

"I don't think it was the right call," Van Persie told TNT Sports. "The referee said someone was blocked, but that was not the case. It was a clear goal. He said sorry to me a couple of times. It was a shame and had a big influence on the game."

Despite having 13 shots and pressing high throughout, Feyenoord could not find a breakthrough. Van Persie insisted his side deserved more: "We performed really well in terms of our high defending, we won so many balls and in possession.

"It's a strange feeling to be standing here with a 2-0 loss because in my opinion we earned more."

The result leaves Villa well placed in the Europa standings after two wins, while Feyenoord remain top of the Eredivisie after a strong domestic start, winning six of their first seven matches.

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