Aston villa defender lined up as future Wales captain
JAMES Collins has been earmarked as a future Wales captain following his £5-million transfer deadline day move to Aston Villa.
Wales boss John Toshack believes Collins’ departure from West Ham could leave the way open for Danny Gabbidon to get more top-flight matches.
Gabbidon has been out with injury for almost two years, while Collins was sold by the Hammers to ease their financial pressures.
The former Cardiff colleagues will form Wales’ central defence against Russia on Wednesday in a World Cup qualifier at Cardiff’s Millennium stadium.
Toshack named his squad on Saturday for the Russia game, and recalled senior men Craig Bellamy, Jason Koumas – now doubtful – and Boaz Myhill. Uncapped midfielder Brian Stock was also back in the squad.
Of Collins’ move to the West Midlands, Toshack said: “Collins is a future Wales captain. I still feel there are some things in his game that he can improve on.
