West Ham United defender James Collins is confident that the East London club can secure a place in the top four, come May.
Simon Johnson of the London Evening Standard reports that the international, who helped Wales to Euro 2016 qualification for the first time in their history earlier in the month, is optimistic about sealing a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League ahead of the move to the Olympic Stadium.
“The confidence is massive. The banter in the dressing room is the best I’ve known it. We look forward to training and we’re on fire at the minute.”
In spite of nearly moving to Norwich City during the summer transfer window, Collins has started the previous two games in the absence of Winston Reid, helping the club achieve successive victories against Crystal Palace and Premier League champions Chelsea.
“We are in a better shape to sustain it. The major thing is we have the squad to do it [finish in the top four]. We have competition for places in every position.”
Collins is currently enjoying his second spell at the Boleyn Ground, having spent five seasons at Upton Park between 2005 and 2009. He then rejoined under Sam Allardyce in 2012 and regained his number 19 shirt.
“The squad this season has been improved so much that if we are there or thereabouts at Christmas, there is no reason why we can’t finish there at the end of the season.”
The Hammers travel to Watford on Saturday, as they look to keep up their unbeaten away run in the league at Vicarage Road.
