Scotland midfielder John McGinn says his grounding at St Mirren has enormously helped him as Aston Villa captain.
McGinn came through the academy in Paisley before breaking into the first team, where he won the League Cup in the 2012-13 season and made almost 100 appearances.
Three years at Hibs followed before a move to Villa in 2018, establishing himself as a crucial player in the Premier League.
McGinn, 31, became Villa captain in 2022 and led the club to Europa League success last season.
"It was a great place to learn," he said, speaking on The Overlap podcast.
"I learned a lot of things that help me now as a captain - it's a really grounded club, disciplined.
"We were probably the last of the real apprenticeships. I would play and then have to litter pick after the game. Looking back now, it was the best thing that ever happened because it kept your feet on the ground.
"Tommy Craig gave me a chance when probably not many managers would have believed in me."
Reflecting on the start to his professional career, McGinn said: "A few injuries happened and I managed to break through.
"I remember playing against [Celtic's Victor Wanyama], my fifth start, at Hampden, absolutely bricking it. That was when I realised I was ready to play against these players."
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