New recruit James Collins has vowed to grasp his Shrewsbury Town chance – and backed Graham Turner’s men to deliver promotion this season.

Collins signed from Aston Villa last week after spending six years with the Premier League giants.

The forward showed his League Two potential by finding the net five times in 11 games for Burton during a loan spell which expired last week.

And he is hoping to make a similar impact at the Greenhous Meadow after signing a contract until the end of next season.

“I have had a brilliant time at Aston Villa and I haven’t got a bad word to say about the club,” said Collins, who didn’t make any competitive first team appearances but was in the travelling party for a UEFA Cup tie at Rapid Vienna.

“But I have just turned 20 now so I need to be playing games.

“The gaffer (Graham Turner) has given me that opportunity.

“Burton was great for me and I enjoyed my time there, but the stature of Shrewsbury and the ambition of the club appealed.

“I’m in my first full week of training now so it’s a chance for me to really settle down.

“The players here are excellent and promotion is what we all want.”

Collins made his debut in Saturday’s 3-1 home defeat against Morecambe, when he teamed up alongside fellow youngster Tom Bradshaw in a new-look strike partnership.

“Tom is a great young talent who has played at various age groups for Wales and I enjoyed playing alongside him,” added Coventry-based Collins.

“I thought I did okay but there was a big disappointment for all the lads with us getting beat.

“I had a couple of chances and should probably have scored the one in injury time.

“It wasn’t my day but I’m confident I can score goals for Shrewsbury Town.”

Town’s reserves are due to be in action at Preston North End tomorrow in the Totesport.com League west division.

By JAMES GARRISON