' James Collins '

The @FAWales defender James Collins confirming international retirement with emotional message


Ginger Collins:

"From the first time I pulled on the Wales shirt as a 14 year old boy till today it has been one of my proudest moments in football, Played with great players and for fantastic managers and they gave me a chance to challenge myself against the worlds best... but the time has come to step aside to let the younger lads take our great country forward and to great things... it’s been a difficult decision to come to, to leave behind such a amazing set of lads and a top manager in Chris Coleman and all his staff, but feel the time is right!! I’d like to thank the gaffa, his staff and the lads for giving me the best time of my life at the Euros last year, it’s a time myself and my family will never forget Thank You!! I’d also like to thank the truly amazing welsh fans who supported myself and the team through thick and thin over"

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James Collins bows out from international duty


Thursday 2nd Nov 2017


Wales' James Collins has announced his retirement from international duty.

The West Ham centre-back turned 34 in August and has decided to focus solely on his club career after winning 50 caps and scoring three goals for Wales.

Collins has not played for Wales since September 2016
Unfortunately for us he wants to spend a bit more time on himself to try and extend his domestic career.

He has said if we're absolutely desperate he would come out of retirement - and it speaks volumes for 'Ginge' he has given us that option.

His attitude has washed off on everybody because he is always so positive.

He did not play all the games at Euro 2016, but 'Ginge' was brilliant for us in France because he was such a loud voice and big character.

– CHRIS COLEMAN, WALES MANAGER

Would and should have had far more caps if it wasn't for his bust up with Coleman. We were picking Championship defenders ahead of him when he was playing week in week out in the Premiership, didn't make any sense. Good luck James Collins.

Would and should have had far more caps if it wasn't for his bust up with Coleman. We were picking Championship defenders ahead of him when he was playing week in week out in the Premiership, didn't make any sense. Good luck James Collins.

agree..
and really dont blame him either..wouldnt be playing in these two friendlies but would probably be expected to play in China when all the pull outs happen..

Great servant and reliable defender ole Ginge.