A no-brainer: With over 100 games for Aston Villa, this veteran star would be perfect for Dean Smith

Why signing James Collins is a no-brainer for Dean Smith and Aston Villa

As per a report on Express & Star, Championship club Aston Villa are ready to offer ex-West Ham centre-back James Collins a short-term deal once he proves his fitness to the club. The 35-year-old is currently training at Villa since mid-September and manager Dean Smith is prepared to sign the defender to cover the current dearth in centre-back options.

The report claims that the 35-year-old is nursing a niggle, which won’t keep him out for long. He is a free agent now and Villa won’t be charged a penny for his transfer. The Wales international trained with Ipswich Town, before moving to Bodymoor Heath Training Ground.

Here’s why the Birmingham-based club signing James Collins is a no-brainer:

Collins’ experience and quality would be key

James Collins is an experienced centre-back who possesses the know-how of English football. Having played more than 300 Premier League games, you could imagine he has the ability to handle pressure circumstances with a calm head on his shoulders.

Moreover, the 35-year-old has featured over 100 times for Aston Villa, between 2009 to 2012. Hence, he knows the atmosphere and the pressure of wearing the jersey. Talking about his attributes as a player, Collins is a physically strong defender who wins aerial duels in abundance. That makes him a genuine threat from set-pieces.

He is an excellent tackler and can make clearances to relieve the pressure on his defence. He possesses the experience to deal with tough situations.

Villa have two centre-backs at their disposal – James Chester and Axel Tuanzebe. Mile Jedinak can fill in if required but the Aussie is not an automatic replacement. Under Dean Smith, the team has regained form and are looking upwards towards the playoff spots for Premier League promotion.

Having been heartbroken in the summer in the playoff final, the club will be aiming to get a top-six finish and get the job done this time. For that to happen, they cannot go a full season with two recognised centre-backs, with one being young as well. Hence, it makes sense that they are signing Collins on a short-term deal.

Read More: Aston Villa re-signing their former star with over 100 games for their club would strengthen their defence massively

This move will help the Birmingham-based club to challenge for the promotion spots and also aid the manager to rotate his centre-back partnership when required.