Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard should not rush into any 'rash decisions' and drop John McGinn despite his underwhelming start to the season at Villa Park, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Midlands outfit have only recorded one Premier League win from their opening six matches, leaving them sitting precariously above the relegation zone.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

What's the latest news involving McGinn?

McGinn's position within Villa's starting line-up was deemed to be at risk ahead of the scheduled trip to Leicester City last weekend after being substituted in four consecutive fixtures.

Although the clash did not go ahead as a mark of respect following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, question marks remain over whether the central midfielder will lead out the side when they take on Southampton on Friday.

McGinn took the captain's armband from Tyrone Mings when he was appointed as Villa's new skipper by boss Gerrard during the summer.

While that may be the case, journalist Dean Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that the 27-year-old is 'not un-droppable'.

Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has also suggested that McGinn could be set for a spell on the bench.

What has Pete O'Rourke said about McGinn?

O'Rourke believes McGinn will eventually return to his best form and needs to be given time to get back into the groove.

The journalist has urged Gerrard to keep putting his faith in the central midfielder despite a testing start to the campaign.

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "I'm sure once John McGinn finds his best form, we'll see him back to his brilliant best for Villa.

"I don't think there's any rash decisions to be made on McGinn's position in their starting XI right now."

Why has McGinn's position in the team been called into question?

McGinn has started all seven of Villa's fixtures in all competitions this season but failed to notch a goal or an assist.

However, the 48-cap Scotland international, who has entered the final three years of his £70,000-per-week contract, has played his part defensively and his current employers may have conceded more were it not for his efforts.

Statistics show McGinn has averaged two tackles, one interception, 0.3 blocks and 0.2 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League.

Although it is clear the midfielder - who has racked up 39 goal contributions over the course of 154 appearances for Villa - has not been at his best, Gerrard would be wise to keep the faith.