06. James Collins

Position: Centre Back Date of Birth: 23rd August 1983 Place of Birth: Newport, Wales Caps: 39* Height: 193cm

James Collins began his career as a trainee at Welsh side Cardiff City in 2000. His debut came in an FA Cup tie against Bristol Rovers in November 2000. Cardiff won the game 5-1. James made 86 appearances in all competitions at Cardiff, scoring 6 goals. He also won Welsh Young Player of the Year in 2005.

West Ham then made a move for Collins, in a joint deal including Danny Gabbidon worth £3.5m. He made his debut for the East End club in the Carling Cup against Sheffield Wednesdau in September 2005. West Ham won the game 4-1.

His Premiership debut came in October against Bolton Wanderers, with his first goal for The Hammers coming on Boxing Day of the same year against Portsmouth. Due to injuries to more experienced defenders, Collins was given a chance to form a partnership with Anton Ferdinand near the end of the 06/07 season. West Ham fans praised Rob Green, Lucas Neill and Collins for their exceptional success in beating the drop.

Collins suffered a career threatening injury in January 2008. He spent 9 months out with severe ligament damage. Collins returned to first team action in October 2008 against Arsenal at Upton Park. The Welshman made 54 league appearances for West Ham, scoring 2 goals.

Aston Villa signed Collins on a 4-year deal at the start of September 2009. His debut for the club came in a new look defence against big rivals Birmingham City. The new defence managed to keep a clean sheet as Villa won the game 1-0. His first goal will be remembered for a while, as it helped Villa beat Chelsea 2-1. Collins scored his third league goal for the club in 1-1 draw with rivals Birmingham in January 2011. His lone goal again was enough to claim all 3-0 points as Villa beat Newcastle 1-0 in April 2011.

Honours;
FAW Premier Cup Winner 01/02 (Cardiff City)
Football League One Playoff Winner 02/03 (Cardiff City)
FA Cup Runner Up 05/06 (West Ham United)
League Cup Runner Up 09/10 (Aston Villa)

Welsh Young Player of the Year 2005

(*-as of 1st May 2011)