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John McGinn: Aston Villa have turned Villa Park into a fortress

The fixture, described as a "six-pointer", carries high stakes with both clubs eyeing a top-four finish.

Villa captain John McGinn is calling on the home faithful to play their part once more, following the electric atmosphere during Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg against PSG.

Villa's formidable form at home continues to be a key strength - they are currently unbeaten in their last 18 matches at Villa Park across all competitions. That run, McGinn believes, could prove decisive in breaking into Europe's elite.

The Magpies, however, arrive with their own ambitions, making the clash even more significant. With only a few points separating the two sides in the table, a win for either could prove pivotal.

"It gives us massive confidence. We're really strong at home. We've made it a tough place to come, especially over the past few seasons," said McGinn.

"But Newcastle are playing really well. They're strong, they're a tough team to play against.

"I think our record against them at Villa Park over the past few seasons is strong, and they hammered us at St James' Park earlier this season.

"We know how important the game is. They're in probably their best run of the season since winning the cup, so it's a huge game for both teams.

"They're obviously five points ahead of us but it's our job to try and close that gap and stay on their toes.

"Definitely, Saturday is a massive game, a six-pointer really."
 

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