Former Wales, West Ham, Cardiff City and Aston Villa defender James Collins has announced his retirement
The 37-year-old has scored three goals in 51 appearances for Wales and was a member of the Euro 2016 squad
« It won’t be a surprise to most people because I haven’t played in a season now, » Collins posted on Instagram
« After careful consideration, I think this is the best thing to do so that I can draw a line in my 20 year career and move on to my next chapter in life
« I would like to thank all the players and fans of all the clubs in which I have played
« Plus all Wales players, staff and fans – as a boy playing for my country was a dream and I’m very proud to have got 51 caps and loved every second
Collins, born in Newport, started his career in Cardiff City and was used as a defender and striker during his time with the Bluebirds
He joined West Ham, along with teammate Danny Gabbidon in 2005, where he spent four seasons and was an FA Cup finalist in 2006, before moving to Aston Villa in 2009
Collins, who represented Wales at all levels, returned to West Ham in August 2012 where he remained until his release in 2018
He reserved a special mention for the Hammers, for whom he played 214 times in his two spells with the club, and said they « will stay in my heart forever »
« I spent 11 years at this wonderful football club and I still think about it every day, » Collins added
« A club where I spent the best moments of my life for so long and where I gave everything every day »
Collins had a short stint at Ipswich during the 2018-19 season, making six appearances before leaving Portman Road
BBC Football, BBC Sports Football
World News – GB – Collins, former Wales and West Ham defender
