West Ham United centre-back James Collins was awarded
the Man of the Match accolade against Manchester United as the team
clinched Premiership survival with a 1-0 victory. But the Wales
defender pinpointed the Hammers' 2-1 win at Ewood Park almost
two months ago as the turning point in the season.
"It was the bit of luck we had at Blackburn," he said.
"Me and Nobes both came into the side at the same time and we
haven't looked back since. We started at Blackburn, got a
little bit of luck and it's all gone our way since, pretty
much.
The confidence throughout the team was down but we got a bit of
luck and turned it around and, like I said, we haven't looked
back since. Seven wins out of nine is Champions League form.
"We're around the top of the form table. It's been a
long, hard season and everyone was really disappointed with the way
it went but we're all really delighted we've stayed
up."
James was pleased to end the season on a high by picking up his
award, but even more delighted that the Hammers got the result they
needed - and deserved - at Old Trafford.
"It's about time I think, because I've been playing
really well!" he said. "I'm delighted to come away
with the win and stay up.
"We went into the game knowing it was in our own hands and
full of confidence from the last few results. We went to Old
Trafford knowing we could get a result and if we did it would be
enough to keep us up. We defended well and luckily Carlos nicked a
goal for us."
To see the full interview with James, log on to WHUTV here .