The former Manchester United player made the move as Aston Villa manager.
Steve Bruce admits a raid on Hibs is amongst some of his best-ever transfer work as a boss.
While Aston Villa manager, the former Manchester United player went shopping north of the border, signing John McGinn from Hibs. The midfielder had won the Scottish Cup and Championship at Easter Road and cemented himself as a Leith hero. There were rumours of Celtic but Bruce brought him to Birmingham for their plans to get out the Championship.
Almost eight years on, the former Hibs star has been a bargain, winning the Europa League this month with Aston Villa, where he’s now captain after returning to the Premier League and sampling Champions League football along the way. Bruce can’t wait to watch him at the World Cup with Scotland alongside Andy Robertson, who he brought to Hull City, and believes McGinn’s all action approach made him a clear standout. Both stars are on the plane to America on Sunday as Scotland face Bolivia in a friendly before their tournament begins against Haiti.
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Who did Steve Bruce sign from Hibs?
He told the Scottish Sun: “These two guys have got to be up at the top of signings I ever made. John has become a huge club hero at Aston Villa. Andy played for Liverpool for nine years, winning titles and the Champions League. To captain Scotland at a World Cup, I’m absolutely delighted for Andy.
“He should be very proud of himself. He’s got 92 caps and to become record cap holder would be amazing. He’s arguably as good a left-back as we’ve seen in this country for the last decade. England haven’t had one so consistent at the top level. John could play for any team and Aston Villa have seen his worth.
“Scotland have been given a hell of a draw up against Morocco and Brazil. But it will be great to watch the two lads at the World Cup. They both have an unbelievable desire to work hard, succeed and not take anything for granted. I’m delighted to have nudged them on their way a little bit.
Steve Bruce on John McGinn
“One of the best parts of the job is seeing lads you’ve worked with go on and achieve. Back then, Villa didn’t have much to shout about. John single-handedly lit the place up with his all-action style and determination. Unfortunately, I didn’t have long with him as I got sacked.
“The new owners wanted change after a few months. Thankfully, they got promoted the following year. John’s old-school; not your typical footballer. He sticks his backside into people, he’s short, squat and strong. And his leadership skills are wonderful. I’m sure he’s still a delight to work with.”
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