The rise and rise of 'Meatball' McGinn

The rise and rise of 'Meatball' McGinnPublished1 minute agoImage source, Getty ImagesByNick McPheatBBC Sport ScotlandIn the days following Unai Emery's appointment as Aston Villa head coach, captain John McGinn was north of the border catching up with some old friends.Some classic west of Scotland pessimism had set in. "He's going to think 'Who's this wee Scottish guy?'" he told his mates in a panic, fearing the worst about his place in how the Spaniard would reshape Villa.If he was to replay that scene in his head almost four years on, he would surely find it difficult not to chuckle at his own expense.McGinn lifted Villa's first major silverware in 30 years last month and the 31-year-old has just enjoyed his highest-scoring season at club level.It is the latest in a line of success stories McGinn has been integral to. At St Mirren he was part of their first cup triumph in 26 years while he played the full 90 minutes when Hibernian ended their 114-year wait for another Scottish Cup.He will feature in his nation's first men's World Cup match in 28 years on Sunday (02:00 BST) after playing a key role in back-to-back European Championship qualifications.Whatever jersey he has on, success seems to follow the all-action midfielder. It feels more like a direct relationship than pure coincidence.Defying the odds and hitting new heights has been the tale of a relentless ascent - although it is one that was a millimetre away from cruelly ending before it had really started.BBC Scotland charts the rise of a modern-day Scotland great, from Clydebank council pitches to football's grandest stage.Set up BBC Sport website and app to show you more Scotland this World CupPublished2 days agoMcGinn in the form of his life and now dancing to Scotland's tunePublished2 days agoInside the fairytale journey of Scotland captain RobertsonPublished3 days agoRed ash, mum the coach & 'no ball games'Before you t...