TOWN boss Andy Ritchie is backing Michael Collins to regain his Republic of Ireland Under 21 berth.

The twice-capped midfielder has missed out on the last four of his country’s European Championship qualifiers after playing the opener against Portugal in September.

Collins, who skippered the Republic at Under 19 level, remained on the bench against England back at Turner’s Cross in Cork in October.

And a dip in form at club level meant he failed to make the squad for the clashes with Montenegro and Bulgaria in November.

Halifax-based Collins again missed out on selection when the Republic took on England at Southampton last night, but Ritchie, whose side host Swindon in League I on Saturday, reckons he is now getting back to his best.

“I’ve been really pleased with Michael’s attitude and workrate all season,” said the Galpharm chief, who watched Collins score his second goal of the season in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Yeovil. “It’s easy to forget he’s only 21 and therefore still making his way in the game.

“He was struggling for consistency before Christmas, and I know he was disappointed to miss out on Under 21 selection, but he took our advice and knuckled down on the training ground.

“The result was that he emerged from that blip and he has been putting in some excellent performances – both at right-back and in midfield.

“Michael is a deep thinker about his football – sometimes a bit too deep – but in the long term, his experience this season will make him mentally stronger.

“I know the Republic have people at our games on a regular basis, and I’m sure they will have been impressed with Michael’s recent form.

“I believe he deserves another chance with the Under 21s, and unless it’s to the detriment of the club in terms of them playing for us, I’m all for players being involved at international level.

“It’s good for them because it broadens their horizons and provides invaluable experience, and it reflects well on us.”