New signing James Collins has spoken of his delight after completing a short-term deal to stay with Town through to the end of the season.
The 35-year-old defender is in line to start tomorrow’s key clash with fourth-from-bottom Rotherham as Town look to close the 10-point between them and the Millers.
Welsh international centre-half Collins told iFollow Ipswich: "I’m delighted. Obviously I was here a few months back and it didn’t work out but I’ve been welcomed back by the manager and all the lads, and I can’t wait to get cracking.
"I’ve kept myself fit since then and Paul gave me a call to come back. We’ve got a deal done so I’m looking forward to getting out on the pitch.
"This is a young side under a bit of pressure because of the league position and hopefully I can help with some experience and guidance, and we can get some good results.
"We feel this is definitely a squad that can get out of this situation and with a few January signings we should be able to start picking up wins.”
Newport-born Collins, who will be joined in tomorrow’s squad with fellow recruits Will Keane, Callum Elder, Collin Quaner and Simon Dawkins, began his career at Cardiff City. He made 67 league appearances before moving on to West Ham, Aston Villa and then back to the Hammers, where he spent six seasons until his release last summer.
In September, TWTD revealed that free agent Collins, who was released by the Hammers last summer, was training with the Town squad.
The 6ft 2in tall centre-half was subsequently offered a contract by former boss Paul Hurst but after he suffered a hamstring injury the proposed move broke down and he rejoined Villa on trial.
The former Wales international, who has won 51 full caps and has scored three international goals, then signed a short-term deal with Villa but after picking up a calf injury ripped up his contract.
Town boss Paul Lambert, who hinted yesterday that Collins would start against the Millers, said: "James has a great presence about him and that can be huge for us. He has played at the highest level and his experience will be vital. We’re delighted to have him here.”
Collins, who has spent the bulk of his career in the Premier League, impressed boss Lambert in training this week and has been allocated squad number 39.