Villa man leads Wales into a new era

Villa defender James Collins is looking forward with confidence as he helps lead Wales into a new era.

The 27-year-old will captain Wales in Gary Speed's first match as manager as they face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin in the Carling Nations Cup tonight.

It will be the third time Collins has led the Welsh in the absence of Craig Bellamy, who is with the squad but not playing, although he has no desire to dislodge the talismanic striker.

Collins, who has 37 caps, said: "It's nice to be captain and I'm delighted that the manager has asked me to do it again, but Bellamy is the captain."

However, Collins was more excited about the new beginning under former Sheffield United boss and one-time Wales international Speed.

The Villa centre-back said: "Every player in the squad probably looked up to the manager when he was playing and a lot of the boys have watched him throughout his career.

"He was held in massive respect even before he came in so it's given everyone a big lift. We've only had one or two sessions but you can see a difference straight away.

"He's very enthusiastic about Welsh football and the boys are getting right on board."

Like Speed, Collins welcomed Bellamy's presence in and around the Wales camp.

The regular captain, who scored Cardiff's winner against Swansea on Sunday, is not injured but is managing a long-term knee problem.

Collins said: "It's great for the younger boys to have Craig around."