James Collins hopes his vast experience can help Championship strugglers Ipswich Town out of their relegation plight.

The 35-year-old former Wales defender has signed a short-term deal until the end of the season just weeks after seeing a switch to Aston Villa wrecked by a calf injury.

Collins, who has been training with Ipswich having been released by West Ham at the end of last season, joins a side that are 10 points from safety.

“I’m delighted. Obviously I was here a few months back and it didn’t work out but I’ve been welcomed back by the manager and all the lads and I can’t wait to get cracking,” Collins told iFollow Ipswich.

“I’ve kept myself fit since then and Paul (Lambert) gave me a call to come back. We’ve got a deal done so I’m looking forward to getting out on the pitch.

“This is a young side under a bit of pressure because of the league position and hopefully I can help with some experience and guidance and we can get some good results.

“We feel this is definitely a squad that can get out of this situation and with a few January signings we should be able to start picking up wins.

Former Cardiff City centre-back Collins made 51 appearances for Wales before ending his international career in 2017.