As reported by the Sun, West Ham are contemplating bringing back former defender James Collins.
The centre-half’s contract was not renewed at the end of last season and he was brutally informed via email that he was being released.
Interestingly though, the 35-year-old has still been training with the Chilean’s squad.
The Sun claim the club’s owners are now considering offering him a one-year deal.
This after a disappointing start to the new season that has seen the team concede six goals in two games.
West Ham brought in a host of new players over the summer including defenders Fabian Balbuena and Issa Diop.
The two centre-halves haven’t yet settled into life at the London Stadium.
While Diop has been on the bench, Balbuena has made a shaky start alongside Angelo Ogbonna.
The Paraguayan looked good in pre-season but appears to be susceptible to pace.
Collins not the answer
Bringing back Collins seems like a bit of a knee-jerk reaction.
At 35, the Welshman would bring experience but there are question marks over his physicality.
Collins was never the quickest. In theory if he replaced Balbuena, then arguably West Ham would not be getting away from the issues they face now.
The Premier League gets quicker year on year, and scrambling to re-sign Collins is not the answer.
He may have been a fan favourite, but there can be no room for regret or sentiment.
If not Collins, then who?
Currently there are a couple of options available to West Ham with Winston Reid out injured.
Declan Rice, who was substituted at half-time against Liverpool, should certainly be considered.
The 19-year-old impressed last season and has more Premier League experience that Balbuena and Diop despite his tender years.
Then there’s Reece Oxford.
He may not have developed in the way many had hoped, but Oxford is an option.
The former Borussia Monchengladbach loanee has good pace and power and might be the surprise answer.
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