MICHAEL COLLINS heads into derby action at Oldham Athletic tomorrow (2.00) ready to continue repaying a big debt to boss Lee Clark.
The 23-year-old midfielder has revealed how earlier this season, personal problems were badly affecting his focus on football.
And he’s full of praise for the way Clark helped him deal with the situation and get his campaign firmly back on track.
Collins, who is set to make his fifth successive start at Boundary Park, explained: “I can’t go into detail, but it was a tough time for me.
“But the way the situation was handled was superb, and the gaffer showed he is a top-class man as well as manager.
“There were times when he left me out of the team for my own good, but he kept faith with me and brought me back in when he thought the time was right.”
Collins, who has also hailed the influence of performance coach Steve Black (see Pages 42 and 43) added: “My problems are sorted and I feel I’m now getting back to something like the level I need to be at.
“I owe the manager big time. I want to put my thanks on record, and I’ll be giving everything I can to repay him, not just tomorrow but for the rest of the season.”
Clark was training the squad this morning before going on a scouting mission to another game.
He is continuing to monitor trialist Anthony Moura-Komenan.
The Ivorian winger, 23, who came through the junior system at Bordeaux, has been impressing in training.
“He hasn’t had much senior football of late, but we have been impressed with what we’ve seen,” added Clark.
