Collins admits personal improvement - exclusive

Last updated : 28 October 2004 By Andy Parsons

The former Sunderland defender has been impressive so far this season although has suffered the odd defensive lapse which he has held his hands up for.

Last night The Owls were cruising against Swindon and at 2-0 up somehow contrived to lose the game thanks to goals from Brian Howard, Sam Parkin and Rory Fallon - the latter two both capitalising on mesmerising wing play by Christian Roberts who first dumfounded Collins and then Lee Bullen to set up The Robins' equaliser and winner.

But arguably Wednesday's player of the season so far Collins says that he has improved by the different training methods and playing regularly this season.

Speaking earlier this week before the Swindon clash, he told Footymad: "There have been two training sessions a day and the defence and forwards have been split up so they can concentrate on their jobs.

"Every single player at this club knows that the new regime is a fresh start for them and those who have already impressed Chris Turner will have to impress again so everyone is trying doubly hard now and that is getting some good results from most of the players, some might not be happy with it, I’m not sure but I know personally I am trying my best and I want to succeed here.

"There has been a lot of games so far and I think I have played sixteen or seventeen successive games and I do get tired from time to time but the most important thing is that I am really enjoying my football, I believe I have done well so far now I just want to get some goals – that’s my target.

"Playing reserve games at Sunderland and first-team games here every Saturday afternoon is completely different. My body has never felt like this before and sometimes I can hardly walk after a game so that is a big change but also the concentration aspect of getting the three points every week and the pressure that goes with that is something you have to adapt to.

"Playing for the England Under-20’s too has helped out with different players and a change of scenery from time to time but also new coaching methods from what we are used to day to day.

"There have been loads of improvements to my game I have made since coming here but to say I am playing in a new position at right back is another learning curve as it is a new position for me.

"It is hard to say whether I am a better full back than central defender but I think I will become more focused on the right-back role but I think it is very difficult to single out my best position but that is up to the manager and coaches to pick out my best qualities."