Cardiff City manager Omer Riza has held crunch talks with experienced Super Eagles defender Jamilu Collins, who has found himself out of favour for both club and country, according to All Nigeria Soccer. Collins has struggled to regain his spot in the Cardiff City team due to injury and stiff competition from his teammates.
The 29-year-old defender suffered an injury setback during pre-season, sidelining him for Cardiff City’s opening seven games. Since his return to fitness, Collins has found himself behind Callum O’Dowda and Joel Bagan in the left-back pecking order, a demotion that is likely to be frustrating for the former Paderborn star...CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶▶
Collins’ situation is further complicated by his dwindling fortunes with the Nigerian national team. He has not played a single minute in the last six games contested by the Super Eagles, with Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Ola Aina ahead of him in the pecking order of national team fullbacks. Since the conclusion of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, Collins has only made four appearances for Nigeria.
Riza acknowledged the challenges of managing players’ emotions, particularly when they’re not getting playing time. “Some players get the hump and they’re not happy with me, but I’ve said this before, it’s hard for me when that happens because the players are really important and I want them to be in a good place,” he said.
The Cardiff City boss emphasized the importance of Collins staying focused and prepared for his opportunity. “He has to stay patient and if he gets his opportunity, he has to take it. He has to be ready,” Riza stressed.
Collins’ contract with Cardiff City expires at the end of the season, and he can begin discussing terms with other clubs in January. With his future uncertain, Riza’s conversation may serve as a motivating factor for Collins to work harder and prove himself...CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶▶
