Former Town defender James Collins has announced his retirement from football having left the Blues at the end of the 2018/19 season.

Collins joined Town in January 2019 after two spells on trial, first under Paul Hurst and then Paul Lambert, and made six starts in an injury-hit spell.

The 37-year-old former Wales international spent much of his career with West Ham where he had two spells and also played for Aston Villa and Cardiff.

"This will not come as a surprise to most people as I haven't played for a season now," he posted on Instagram. "But with a heavy heart I've decided to officially retire from football.

"After a lot of thought I believe this is the best thing to do so I can draw a line under my 20-year career and move on to my next chapter in life.

"I would like to thank all the players and fans at all the clubs I played for.

"Also all the players, staff and fans of Wales - as a boy to play for my country was a dream and I'm very proud to have gone on to get 51 caps and loved every second.”

Photo: Matchday Images

Suffolkboy added 10:30 - Oct 18 What a shame we couldn't see more of and from him ; a seasoned professional with a wise head and absolute honesty , just the physical presence we really needed too ! Wish him all the best for the future and success whatever he chooses to do . Good man ! COYB
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NicRams added 10:49 - Oct 18 A proper old school solid defender, something I feel is missing from the modern game. Somebody who'll throw himself into anything. I agree with Suffolkboy, a massive shame we couldn't see more from him but feel whatever he does he's got a lot to offer on the coaching front.
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Swailsey added 11:38 - Oct 18 Loved his reaction after the Rotherham win! One of the only bright spots of the relegation season.
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Bergholtblue added 11:46 - Oct 18 Only six starts but each time he player his reading of the game was streets ahead of anyone else on the pitch. A top defender, it was a pity that by the time he had got to us his legs had gone. Wish him well with the next chapter in his life.
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Wickets added 11:50 - Oct 18 Guts aplenty .chrisswailes i agree the one bright moment in that terrible season .
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coolcat added 13:23 - Oct 18 Was a treat to have him even in the autumn of his career. What a defender. Best wishes on his retirement.
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itfchorry added 14:28 - Oct 18 Great Competitor - Proud he wore our Shirt
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Nthsuffolkblue added 17:19 - Oct 18 Re-echo the comments above. Will make a very good coach should he choose that path, in my opinion.
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KiwiBlue2 added 00:10 - Oct 19 Great player. I wish him well in his future activities.
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SouperJim added 10:26 - Oct 19 Kept Rotherham out practically on his own, we never would have seen that game out without him. The points didn't matter in the end of course, but one of the most determined performances when up against it I've ever seen from anyone in a Town shirt.
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