John McGinn 'desperate' for Hibs Conference League reunion as Villa star had been eyeing Scottish draw for MONTHS

John McGinn has been 'desperate' to land a Scottish team in European competition and now the Scotland star has his wish.

The beloved midfielder will get the chance to square off with old team Hibs in what will be an emotional return for the now Aston Villa man. McGinn spent three successful years at Easter Road, being part of the infamous side that won the 2016 Scottish Cup and will be given a hero's welcome at Easter Road on Wednesday when Unai Emery's men travel to Edinburgh for the glamour tie.

And it is something the 28-year-old has been looking forward to months according to brother Stephen, who was on commentary duties for Aberdeen's Viaplay Cup clash with Stirling Albion. His sibling believes regardless it would have been a special night for McGinn who is captaining the Villa Park side back to Europe. But the added incentive of a return to Hibs caused a small section of Birmingham to celebrate last night's triumph for Lee Johnson's men.

He told BBC Sportsound: "We're really looking forward to it. My mum and dad were saying with the European away tie they might have to travel far...they only have to go an hour now through to the capital. But John has been saying for months he's desperate for a Scottish team. Whether that be Hearts or Hibs, maybe even Aberdeen if they dropped down to the Conference.

"When the tie came out for Hibs vs Luzern, I think a small section of Birmingham celebrated the Jordan Obita goal quite heavily. Wherever it was in Europe it was going to be special for John...to do it at Easter Road where the Hibs fans are fond of him, he's desperate to get back there. Personally it will be a special night for him and the family."