McGinn’s happy to remain a Buddie

John McGinn knew big things were expected of him when manager Danny Lennon made him one of his key players this season.

The 19-year-old midfielder was summoned to his gaffer’s office on day one of pre-season to be given a massive vote of confidence.

But McGinn is now beginning to justify such faith in his ability by turning in a string of highly impressive performances to help move St Mirren away from relegation worries.

It’s also been enough to see him beat off stiff competition to be named the SPFL Young Player of the Month for December and he feels he has finally come of age.

McGinn said: “I feel as if I’m getting stronger and holding my own a bit more in the team. I know this sounds silly, but I do feel as if I’m no longer a young player. I’m one of the main guys in the team, and I hope it stays that way.

“The manager told me on the first day of pre-season. He pulled me in and said that I was going to be an important part of the team. That obviously gave me a lot of confidence. I didn’t back that up at the start, but now I’m starting to show.

“I don’t think him putting that expectation on me was pressure. I just had to try and get back to basics and not get too carried away about last season. We won the League Cup, I know that, but really I’ve not done anything in my career yet so I’ve got to keep working away.”

McGinn has already been linked with a move to England, with Bolton believed to be interested in securing his services.

His older brother Stephen quit the Paisley club to pursue a career south of the border with Watford before moving on to Sheffield United. But John insists he’s in no hurry to leave St Mirren.

He said: “When people are taking notice, you are doing something right. But I am happy here and, as long as I keep playing and doing well, I’ll stay happy.

“When Stephen went down south, he had a six-month period when he found it hard to adjust and just had to be patient. So you realise there’s a time to go and when not to. You have to be ready.

“I think Stephen was, but I’m in no rush to go anywhere. I’ve another 18 months left on my contract, and my brother tells me to keep working away and learning.”