James Collins hasn’t had the easiest season but Slaven Bilic was quick to play him the ultimate compliment after a remarkable performance with Angelo Ogbonna at the heart of the Hammers defence against Swansea.
The manager declared in his post match presser: “I thought Collins was immense. I told him it is a big privilege for me to work with him and have him in my team.
“He is experienced. Sometimes he was on the bench, sometimes a sub but other times he has started and he has always been brilliant. It is great to have him,
“He is a great example to the young players of how they should behave and train hard for their chance.”
Bilic is confident victories will start to follow as the likes of Manuel Lanzini and Dimitri Payet ease their way back into action.
“I said the only way to compensate for the injuries was through team performances and teamwork and that is what we have done over the last few games,” he said.
“When the players come back it will make us very positive.”