COLLINS: THESE ARE THE STAGES I WANT TO PLAY ON

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Defender Nathan Collins looking forward to City test

2021-10-15T14:35:04.049Z

COLLINS: THESE ARE THE STAGES I WANT TO PLAY ON

Defender Nathan Collins looking forward to City test

2021-10-15T14:35:04.049Z

Defender Nathan Collins looks ahead to Terriers FA Cup clash

Nathan Collins is hoping to test himself against 'the best' this weekend as Burnley continue their quest for a first league win of the season.

Since arriving at Turf Moor following his summer move from Stoke City, the Irish centre half has impressed in both cup and league action, starting the draw with Norwich before the international break.

On Saturday the Clarets face defending champions Manchester City away from home, and Collins is relishing the challenge ahead.

“It is going a good game and I can’t wait for it. Hopefully I have done enough to ask a big question of the gaffer,” he said.

“It would be special for me to play at the Etihad as well, that stadium is immense.

“To play against the big boys, that is why I play football, I want to play against the best, compete against the best and be the best. These are the stages I want to play on for sure.

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“It will be difficult without them playing with a recognised striker, it poses a different question. But I think you have to be ready for it.

“If I play there (at Manchester City) it would certainly be up there as one of the biggest games I’ve played.

“But we are out there to get a win and that is the main objective. We are going to try our best to nullify them.”

Collins deputised for skipper Ben Mee in the last league game, which saw Burnley keep a clean sheet against Norwich City in the 0-0 stalemate at Turf Moor.

And the summer arrival was satisfied with his first Premier League start. He said: “I was pleased with my performance against Norwich.

“It was unfortunate we didn’t get the win. It was really frustrating and obviously that is the main thing.

“But on a personal note, I thought I did ok and I was pretty happy with my performance.

“It was easy to slot beside the likes of James (Tarkowski) and Ben Mee, because they help you so much.

“They also know the game so well, and James really helped me on the day.”

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In a month of firsts, since his Premier League bow, Collins has also made his international senior debut for Republic of Ireland on Tuesday in a 4-0 win over Qatar.

It was a special moment for the 20-year-old.

He said: “It was a very proud night for me and my family. By the end of the game my family were in tears nearly, it was a long time coming.

“As a big footballing family, who have played throughout the levels going back years, it is a big deal.

“To finally get a senior cap in the family is amazing. I was buzzing when the manager told me and just wanted to get going.

“It was a bit strange not to play in green (Ireland wore a special centenary blue shirt) but it was a lovely kit and hopefully I will play in the green soon.”