Former Wolves defender Neill Collins named as head coach of Tampa Bay Rowdies

Collins has played for Rowdies since 2016 but likely played his last game on Wednesday ahead of his appointment.

The 34-year-old, who made 84 Wolves appearances, will coach his first game tomorrow at home against Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the United Soccer League.

Collins, who has a UEFA A coaching licence, called the opportunity ‘impossible to turn down’.

He said: “Curtailing my playing career is not an easy decision, but when an opportunity is as good as this one, it’s impossible to turn down.

"It’s a fantastic club with many fantastic people behind the scenes and an excellent playing squad. I’m excited about the challenge of taking this club to where I think it should be.”

The Scotsman played for Wolves between 2007 and 2009 before going on to spells at Preston North End, Leeds United and Sheffield United.

But he made the trip across the pond in 2016 for the Rowdies, where he made 63 appearances in total.

Club chairman and CEO Bill Edwards said: "I am excited to announce Neill Collins as the new head coach of the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

“I’ve witnessed Neill’s intensity firsthand, and I know everyone in the locker room has immense respect for his ability and work ethic.

"He’s got the skills, the drive and the attitude to move the club to the top of the table.

"There are good coaches out there, but I think you can make a great coach by giving someone who already has a passion for the club a chance to lead it to victory.

"I have great faith in Neill. I know he intends to succeed in his new role with the Rowdies.”