Just when you thought we couldn't get any more desperate .... ALLARDYCE LOOKS TO WEST HAM FOR DEFENSIVE REINFORCEMENT

West Ham defender James Collins is reportedly one of five transfer targets on a defensive shortlist for Crystal Palace.

As reported by the Daily Mail, the former England manager is searching far and wide in a bid to tighten up the Palace defence in the hope of avoiding relegation.

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images SportShaun Botterill/Getty Images Sport

Lamine Kone, Phil Jagielka, Chris Samba and Anderlecht defender Kara Mbodji are also being considered.

Collins has had two spells with West Ham, with the first starting way back in 2005. He first left the club in 2009 to join Aston Villa but re-joined in 2012.

The Welsh international was a key part of the Hammers’ defence during the time that Allardyce was in charge.

At the age of 33, made 11 appearances in the Premier League for West Ham this season, 10 of which were starts as he remains a key part of the club’s back four.

Collins started in the recent meeting between the two sides, that saw West Ham ease past Palace, winning 3-0.

James Collins is a decent premier league defender. He isn't going to win any awards but he'll put a shift in and he'll be up for the fight. Will also have experience playing with Tomkins at times so hopefully need less time to bed in.

For little money I think it's a good option, given there are obviously other areas we are trying to focus on.

If we're intending to proceed with a back 3 then we definitely need more than 3 available CBs.

Certainly prefer him to Samba. Have never heard of the Anderlecht player so can't comment. Kone will be too expensive and Sunderland will presumably not let half their back 4 go. And Jagielka - I would think would be much more expensive.

Edited by OknotOK (24 Jan 2017 12.26pm)

"It's almost like a moral decision. Except not really cos noone is going to find out," Jez, Peep Show

I've admired Collins for a few years. Could certainly do a job for a couple of seasons.

He would do a job, god experienced pro and a great character, good header of the the ball, decent passer and cheap! Yes please!

Let's be honest here, we were very lucky that Delaney turned into the player he is now (and I'm glad he did). But just because it worked once, doesn't mean it will again.