Collison out to impress

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Last updated: 9th October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Collison out to impress

Collison: Relishing challenge

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Jack Collison is looking forward to facing Mark Noble in Wales Under 21s' clash with England.

Collison is currently behind Noble in the midfield pecking order at West Ham but he is relishing the challenge of trying to break into the side.

The 20-year-old will line up against his club-mate in Friday's European Championship play-off at Ninian Park and is determined to turn in a good performance.

"I am looking forward to playing against Mark, we get on well and there has been plenty of banter between us since the draw paired Wales with England," said Collison.

"One day I would want to be playing alongside Mark in the same midfield, so this is my chance to show how well I can compete against him."

"It will be very interesting when we face each other. Obviously he is a rival for a midfield place at West Ham, but I train with him every day so I know a lot about him."

Brilliant Zola

Gianfranco Zola has replaced Alan Curbishley as manager at Upton Park this season and Collison has been impressed by the Italian.

"He has been brilliant, a breath of fresh air," he added.

"Training has been very sharp, and he is very bright and approachable with the boys, a lot of one-on-one stuff and I am really enjoying it.

"I am not going to slag off (Alan) Curbishley because he gave me my debut. He was good in his own ways and Zola is good in his ways.

"They both have their own style but this is a new experience and new challenge for me.

"I have spoken to Zola and he said that I need to be patient and wait for my chance, and I will get one.

"So at the moment I will work hard, and these two matches against England are a great opportunity for me to impress."