Source: Team_Talk
Collins applauds young Villans
James Collins has backed Aston Villa's emerging youngsters to make their mark against visiting Manchester United this weekend.[LNB] Gerard Houllier's injury problems have seen Marc Albrighton, Ciaran Clark, Barry Bannan and Nathan Delfouneso thrust into the action this season.[LNB]The quartet all started Wednesday night's 3-2 victory over Blackpool at Villa Park and could again be named in the starting XI for Saturday's lunchtime visit of Sir Alex Ferguson's unbeaten Red Devils.[LNB]The Old Trafford outfit have a history of turning to talent regardless of age, with Mexico striker Javier Hernandez currently flourishing in their forward line.[LNB]Experienced Villa centre-back Collins, whose late header secured three points against the Seasiders, is confident the Midlands club will be well served again by their youngsters.[LNB]Collins said: "United have done it and they are having to do it again with the centre forward they have got playing.[LNB]"Our lads, it has taken them a bit of time to break into the team but once they have come in they have done very well. [LNB]"Marc Albrighton has started the season in terrific form. Ciaran playing centre of midfield - when he is a centre-half really - is playing like he has been playing there all his life.[LNB]"Everyone at the club knows Barry is a great player. I think they have coped with it well. That's why they are playing in the Premier League.[LNB]"When you are younger you dream about playing against teams like Manchester United. If they are not up for that, then they won't be up for many."[LNB]Collins was part of the Villa side beaten 2-1 by United in last season's Carling Cup final but insists that encounter will have no bearing on this weekend's meeting.[LNB]"It was a day when we wanted to do well and were disappointed," he added. "But it is a completely different situation now playing in the league where we need points.[LNB]"Everyone is looking forward to it. We have to go into the game thinking we can win.[LNB]"There is no point thinking any different. It is going to be tough. But we've had a couple of days rest to look forward to it."
