Bale ready for England

20110322

Collins also in contention as he eyes captaincy

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 22nd March 2011  

Collins: Captaincy contender

Bale: Over back trouble

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Gareth Bale has declared himself fully fit ahead of Wales’ Euro 2012 qualifier against England on Saturday.

The Tottenham winger has been nursing a back injury of late, restricting his domestic activity.

He was, however, able to come through 90 minutes against West Ham last weekend unscathed and is now raring to go for Wales.

Bale’s availability offers a timely boost to national coach Gary Speed, as he attempts to plot England’s downfall.

The 21-year-old will be crucial to any hope Wales have of taming the Three Lions at the Millennium Stadium.

Recovery

On his fitness, Bale said: “I had my first 90 minutes on Saturday and was a bit stiff after the game and the next day.

“But I have recovered well and am just getting prepared for the weekend now.”

Aston Villa defender James Collins has also put himself in contention for a starting berth on Saturday after shaking off a calf complaint.

He said: “I trained for four or five days up at Villa and then came down and trained again this morning Tuesday.

“The calf is great and ready to go.”

Skipper

Collins is among those in contention to inherit the captain’s armband from Craig Bellamy, following the striker’s decision to vacate the role, but he insists Speed has given no indication as to who will be awarded the honour.

He said: “The manager is keeping his cards close to his chest. He is a great man-manager and the way he is going to do it is obviously the right way.

“The boys are sitting tight and waiting to see.

“I’ve done it a few times in the past and it’s a massive honour for myself. If the manager comes to me and I am captain I will be overjoyed.

“Any time you are captain is an honour but at home in front of a full house with all my family there, and against England, would be something special.”

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