London Football News

West Ham’s Collins quits international football

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West Ham defender James Collins’ Wales career appears to be over.

The vastly experienced Collins, 34, has won 50 caps for his country but is behind the likes of Ashley Williams and James Chester in the pecking order.

The centre-back has told Wales boss Chris Coleman he would be make himself available in the event of an injury crisis.

But he has effectively retired from international football and Coleman does not expect to select him again.

Collins indicated that he wanted to concentrate on playing for West Ham and spending more time with his family.

Speaking at a press conference, Coleman said: “It’s a shame because I’ve really enjoyed working with him.

“He’s different to the modern-day professional – let’s put it that way. He’s definitely someone I’d put in a dressing room that I can remember, rather than the one I’m working with now. But he’s been absolutely fantastic.

“He wants to spend a bit more time on himself to try and extend his domestic career and he’s got young children as well.

“He has said if we’re absolutely desperate he would come out of retirement – and that speak volumes for ‘Ginge’ that he has given us that option.”




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