West Ham defender James Collins has confirmed on his Instagram account that he is close to returning to full fitness.
The 34 year old has been sidelined with an ankle injury for the past six weeks, missing the last five league games, but the centre back says he is confident he will be back on the pitch very soon:
“Been a frustrating 6 weeks with the injury, but very close to returning…can’t wait to get back out there.”
Slaven Bilic’s decision to switch to a back three once more means Collins’s return would be a timely one. Angelo Ogbonna has struggled defensively this season, and gave away the penalty against Crystal Palace which helped the Eagles back into the match.
The prospect of Declan Rice being used in his favoured centre half position has excited Hammers fans but the 18 year old was only a substitute against Palace after having started the Carabao Cup win against Spurs.
Many supporters will be hoping that Rice will be given an extended run in the first team, and it could certainly be made easier if Collins is fit to play alongside him.
