Collins eager for Baggies battle

eil Collins booked his place for another Black Country derby date - and predicted another night to remember tomorrow at Molineux.The seventh meeting in the last two seasons between the fiercely-competitive neighbours once again goes ahead against a backdrop of rival promotion ambitions.

And Collins, who produced a highly-impressive display in Wolves goalless draw at Bristol City on Saturday, is relishing his team’s opportunity to claim only their second win over the Baggies in that sequence.

“Irrespective of our two league positions Wolves against West Brom is a great game to look forward to,” said Collins.

“Hopefully we can do what we did in the league there, keep it tight and maybe this time nick one as well.

“It’s two good footballing sides and should be a good game. There’s nothing to fear from anyone in this division but if you don’t play well, then whether it’s West Brom or anyone, they can take you apart.

“For me the derby games have been different class and up there with the best atmospheres I’ve played in.

“At Molineux in particular the fans created a great atmosphere and really got behind us and it’s a night game as well which will help.

“You can’t beat being involved in these sorts of games - you’re in football for them - and while I look forward to every game this one’s got that wee bit extra.”

Manager Mick McCarthy now has his old faithful Gary Breen available again after injury but kept faith with Collins-Jody Craddock partnership for the Ashton Gate contest.

And he said “possession was nine-tenths of the law” in the battle for places for the showdown with the old enemy which both teams will surely view as a “must-win” contest.

“Neill has got better and better,” said McCarthy.

“I’ve got Breen on the bench but somebody asked me who my best pairing was at the back and playing as well as they have, I selected Craddock and Collins.

“That was proved right by their performance.”

Collins added: “People say this and that about the season we’ve had but we’ve got five games to go and are in with a great chance of the play-offs.

“It should all be judged at the end and we’re in the mix and confident that we will be there come May.”