Cardiff City coach Omer Riza recently shared insights into ongoing discussions with Jamilu Collins, the left-back facing an uphill battle to reclaim his spot in the team’s lineup.
Injuries and intense competition have kept Collins out of the starting XI, leaving him sidelined for both club and national duties, Footballrover reports.
Collins, who missed Cardiff’s first seven matches this season, is now battling for his place against teammates Callum O’Dowda and Joel Bagan.
Although back in training, he’s yet to make a meaningful return to action.
A tough path ahead for Jamilu Collins
The seasoned defender’s frustration may be growing, especially as he’s had limited game time since Cardiff’s loss to Hull City in Riza’s debut match.
With his contract set to expire at season’s end, Collins has a crucial decision looming, with January presenting an opportunity to explore other clubs.
The Cardiff coach urged Jamilu Collins to stay mentally prepared and seize any chance to reenter the squad.
Riza, who was quoted by Wales Online, said,
“I’ve had a good chat with JC, and he’s had his injuries; he’s had a few issues with his body,”
“He’s come back in and been training, but at the minute he’s got Callum O’Dowda, who is playing very well, and Joel, who has had to come out for Callum, who is also doing well.
“There are two left-backs who can both play higher and lower. He has got to wait and be patient. I’ve had that conversation.”
“Some players get the hump and they’re not happy with me, but I’ve said this before: it’s hard for me when that happens because the players are really important and I want them to be in a good place.
“I can’t control everything in respect of their feelings, no matter how much I talk to them or how I try to help them in that way.
“He has to stay patient, and if he gets his opportunity, he has got to take it. He has to be ready.”
For the Nigerian international, patience and resilience may be key to turning his season around.
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