Former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Neil Collins is reportedly in talks with Walsall about becoming the club’s new manager, according to Daily Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath’s Twitter page.
Walsall have been in search of a manager since they sacked newly appointed Swindon Town boss Michael Flynn back in April and have been linked with several candidates, including Danny Cowley.
Who Is Neil Collins?
Collins is a former Scotland Under 21 international defender who represented a plethora of clubs in England and Scotland. After beginning his career at Queen’s Park, he moved on to Dumbarton before embarking on his journey south of the border. His initial destination was Mick McCarthy’s eventual Championship title winners Sunderland and would reunite with the Irishman when joining Wolverhampton Wanderers.
He would have spells at Preston North End and Leeds United before signing for Sheffield United in the January of 2011 and going on to spend over 5 years at Bramall Lane before leaving for Tampa Bay in March 2016 and becoming the club’s manager two years later.
Collins was named Coach of the Year in 2021 as his side finished top of the Eastern Division and again qualified for the Playoffs in 2022. The Rowdies have started their latest campaign in somewhat of a mixed vein of form, currently standing 4th in the USL Eastern Conference having won 3 of their opening 9 matches.
Would Collins Suit Walsall?
Neil Collins has vast playing experience and has made an impressive start to management, guiding his side to the playoffs in 2020 after winning Group H in a Covid-impacted season, finishing the regular season on top of the league in 2021 and making the playoff final in 2022.
He has created a well-drilled team, one that has built its success on a tight defence and one that has shown great consistency under his leadership. Walsall only conceded 49 this season so Collins would have a defensive base to work with but, with the team averaging a goal per game themselves, his priority may be adding to the Saddlers’ attack.
Writer’s View
Neil Collins has made a positive start to his management career, already achieving league wins albeit falling short in the playoff matches. Whether the Walsall fans would view the fact that his career in management has thus far been in the second tier of American soccer with some uncertainty remains to be seen but a young manager who is used to experiencing success may just be what the club need.
Walsall’s league performances in recent years have, at best, plateaued and the club require improved fortunes. Collins’ potential appointment could provide a fresh approach and upturn in results that Saddlers’ fans are crying out for.
Alternatively, the club’s hierarchy may want to go with someone they see as a safer option in the form of a manager with experience leading a team in the English league. The next appointment made by the club is a vital one and fans will be hoping for a more successful season than they have enjoyed in recent history.
Good article, reminds me of our probable world record for four managers in one season, I think 1982/3, but may be out a year. Fan since 1946.