Thompson points to the leadership once supplied by Jordan Henderson and James Milner. Liverpool still possess technical quality in midfield, but their former captains offered more than tidy passing: they set standards, demanded intensity and helped shape matches when momentum turned against them.
McGinn fits that same combative profile. The Aston Villa captain covers ground, competes for second balls and carries a visible emotional authority. He is not simply a midfielder who contributes; he often becomes the tone-setter for his team.
His recent influence has strengthened the case. McGinn scored the only goal in Scotland’s 1-0 win over Haiti, then played a leading role as Villa defeated Liverpool 4-2 at Villa Park on 15 May. Days later, he helped Villa beat Freiburg 3-0 in the Europa League final.
Roy Keane has questioned McGinn’s consistency while acknowledging his overall contribution. Thompson considers that assessment too severe, arguing that Keane’s own career was built on the same commitment, force and personality that now define McGinn.
There is a fair debate over McGinn’s off-days. His game is built on risk, confrontation and physical effort, so occasional inconsistency is part of the package. But for Villa and Scotland, his influence is difficult to measure only through goals or assists.
Liverpool have reportedly admired McGinn before, dating back to his time at Hibernian. Yet a move now appears unlikely. Villa have little obvious reason to sell their captain, particularly after securing Champions League football and winning a major trophy.
Liverpool may therefore need to find a different player with the same authority rather than pursue McGinn directly. The next transfer window will reveal whether Thompson’s call becomes a recruitment priority - or remains a warning about the leadership gap Liverpool must address.