da dobrowin： According to The Sun, West Ham could be set to re-sign free agent James Collins only mere months after releasing the defender in the first place.
What’s the story?
da 888： Collins only left the London Stadium at the end of last season, upon the expiry of his contract with the Hammers. The 34-year-old has remained unattached throughout the summer, but could now be set for a surprise return to the East London club.
[brid autoplay=”true” video=”257603″ player=”12034″ title=”Watch West Brom’s opening fixtures for the 201819 Championship season”]
Having already served West Ham for eleven seasons – across two spells with the club – it would certainly be a return to familiar territory for the Welsh veteran, who remains a favourite amongst the Hammers faithful.
At this stage of his career, Collins wouldn’t be arriving to play week in week out within new boss Manuel Pellegrini’s set up, but his experience could certainly assist the team over the course of the campaign.
However, at Championship level, Collins could have a bigger impact still.
Before he has chance to return to West Ham, West Brom ought to offer the centre-back terms to join them at the Hawthorns.
Promotion push
Having been relegated from the Premier League last time out, the Baggies are amongst the favourites to seal promotion from the second tier this season, and make an immediate return to the Premier League.
Darren Moore undoubtedly has plenty of talent amongst the ranks at his disposal, but following an exodus of stars from the Hawthorns over the summer, concerns linger that West Brom may lack the depth required to sustain a promotion push.
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Moore’s rearguard in particular looks a little light on numbers. Ahmed Hegazi, new signing Kyle Bartley and loaned-in youngster Tosin Adarabioyo currently represent the club’s entire quota of centre-back options, although Craig Dawson could also return after failing in his bid to earn a move away.
The recruitment of Collins would provide great competition and cover in that area of the pitch. Whilst the former Wales international may no longer have the pace of the Premier League left in his legs, his physical presence, leadership and authority means he remains quite suitable for Championship competition.