Would James Collins Represent Better Business Than Skrtel For Rangers?

After failing to come to terms with Martin Skrtel, it looks like Steven Gerrard will have to look elsewhere for defensive recruitments.

It seems that the incoming Rangers boss is looking for an experienced no-nonsense centre-back. That suggests that he doesn’t fancy keeping Bruno Alves on at Ibrox.

Recent reports claim that the Govan outfit could be looking at veteran James Collins.

Now some of the Gers support might not fancy the idea but he could be a better signing than some give him credit for.

He’s a thirty-four year old Welsh international (51 caps), who has played  in the English Premier League for the last thirteen years. So he has bags of top flight experience.

Collins is a committed defender that plays by the safety first rule. He also dominates in the air, on average he won 3.6 aerial battles per game last term.

The Welshman has a decent goalscoring record for a defensive player and he’s a leader on the pitch. Gerrard probably wants more voices of authority on the pitch and Collins would fit that mould.

Financially, bringing James in would make more sense that Skrtel. He’s available on a free transfer after being let go by West Ham United and he won’t demand the same high wages as the Slovakian international defender.

Dubbed the ‘Ginger Pele‘ Collins was loved by the West Ham faithful, with many of them venting their anger at his release and the way the London club handled the situation:

 

Hammers captain Mark Noble went a step further stating that the club should offer the Newport native a new deal:

“One of the bravest, honest, hardworking most loyal person you will ever meet, us at West Ham United have truly been lucky to have him at our club for so many years,” 

“James Collins let’s hope it continues.”

That shows you the standing the big centre-half had with his former club’s players and the fans.

For those Ibrox supporters doubting his ability and qualities, I bet they did the same when Clint Hill signed a few seasons back. Yet veteran Hill became one of the Gers top performers in his only season at the club in the 2016-17 season.

Injuries could be an issue with the defender, Collins missed nineteen games last year due to injury. He’s had particular problems with his hamstrings during his career.

It would also be important for Gerrard to bring in another younger defender to add more competition at the back, one with a bit of pace and who can tackle as that would compliment Collins’ or Alves style.

When determining James Collins and his suitability in playing for Steven Gerrard at Ibrox, for me it comes down to the future of Bruno Alves.

I think they’re too similar and of the same age group to play together at the back. If Bruno leaves in the summer, then I think Collins could do a job for the Scottish Premiership side.

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