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James Collins joins Aston Villa for training with option to sign as free agent

James Collins previously played for Aston Villa under managers Martin O'Neill, Gérard Houllier and Alex McLeish - West Ham United FC
James Collins previously played for Aston Villa under managers Martin O'Neill, Gérard Houllier and Alex McLeish - West Ham United FC

Steve Bruce is considering a move for James Collins, the former West Ham defender.

Collins has been invited to train with Aston Villa's squad by Bruce and could join the Championship club as a free agent.

The Wales international is available after leaving West Ham at the end of last season and was close to joining Ipswich earlier this month.

Bruce has made contact with the 35-year-old and is open to the idea of offering him a short-term deal with Villa.

It is understood that Collins is struggling with a muscle injury that has restricted his training, though he has held talks with Bruce this week.

Paul Hurst, the Ipswich manager, said: “I’ve been made aware he won’t be signing for Ipswich Town – I’m surprised we’ve not seen anything in the press in some shape or form. I had a message from James and that deal is dead and buried now.

“I made no secret of the fact we wanted to do something there but I stand by the fact he wasn’t fit at the time. That was what was best for the football club.

“But if what I’m led to believe is happening, is happening then I wish him well. He was here and genuinely did enjoy his time here.”

Collins played for Villa for three years, between 2009 and 2012, under managers Martin O'Neill, Gérard Houllier and Alex McLeish.