John McGinn explains Nicolas Jackson's role after Tottenham goal

Aston Villa captain John McGinn believes Nicolas Jackson is beginning to find his rhythm after scoring his first Premier League goal for the club during Saturday's 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. The forward doubled Villa's lead shortly after the hour mark at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, building on Johan Manzambi's strike before half-time.

Jackson arrived from Chelsea late last month as part of a busy transfer window for Unai Emery's squad. Speaking to TNT after the final whistle, McGinn explained that the goal was the product of specific preparation during the week leading up to the fixture.

According to Birmingham Live, McGinn noted that the manager had spoken to the players in detail about exploiting space against a Spurs side that presses aggressively. The captain praised the build-up play, highlighting Manzambi's contribution alongside Jackson's composure in front of goal.

McGinn also pointed to a visible shift in the 25-year-old's demeanour since joining the club. He suggested that Jackson appears far more assured now than when he first arrived, having previously struggled for regular minutes at both Chelsea and Bayern Munich.

The midfielder admitted he had to intervene during the celebrations to remind his team-mate that he was already on a yellow card. It was a light-hearted moment in what proved to be a demanding afternoon, with Villa holding on despite conceding twice after Emi Buendia's third goal secured the advantage.

Beyond Jackson, McGinn reflected on the broader attacking options available to Emery this season. He acknowledged that while he and Buendia provide energy in midfield, the pace offered by Jackson, Manzambi and Ibrahim Mbaye gives the team a different dimension compared with the opening weeks of the campaign.

Jackson will now link up with Senegal for the international break before returning to prepare for Villa's next Premier League fixture at home to Brentford on Saturday 10 October.