John McGinn has urged his Aston Villa team-mates to put things into perspective after their 15-game winning run at home came to an end against Sheffield United.

The Villans drew 1-1 with Chris Wilder's relegation-threatened side, substitute Nicolo Zaniolo cancelling out Cameron Archer's late opener with a stoppage-time header.

Villa have at least moved up to second in the Premier League table, one point ahead of Liverpool who host leaders Arsenal tomorrow evening.

And skipper McGinn believes the fact a draw against the Blades "feels like a defeat" is a clear sign of the progress made this term.

He told Sky Sports: "We weren't at our free-flowing best that's for sure. Sheffield United were better at their plan than we were tonight.

"We didn't create enough chances and certainly need to improve if teams play like this against us again.

"We're joint-top of the league at the moment. Yes we're disappointed not to go outright top but we need to put it into perspective. 

"We've been on a superb run at home and it was bound to come to an end at some point.

"It shows the mentality shift that this feels like a defeat. We wanted to win, even at the end we put the pressure on."

Unai Emery's Villa had a potential opening goal in the 59th minute through Leon Bailey disallowed after a VAR review declared Jacob Ramsey had fouled goalkeeper Wes Foderingham.

McGinn thinks the decision was a tad harsh but refused to dwell on the impact of the incident.

The Scotland international said: "I think it's a wee bit harsh. Goalkeepers are protected and I'm not sure what the rules are on phases of play. That's one for the referees. 

"Things go for you and against you. The last time we played Sheffield United here the goalie carried the ball over the line."

Blades stopper Foderingham added: "I was 100% confident it was going to get overturned. I could feel his arm on me pulling me away."