DANNY COLLINS is struggling to be fit for Wales' vital European Championships qualifier next month.

The Sunderland left-back suffered a hip injury at Kenilworth Road on the final day of the Championship season, when Roy Keane's men won the Football League title.

But Sunderland's good fortune left Collins nursing a slight problem and he has been ruled out of playing for the Welsh this weekend against New Zealand.

However, after only recently returning to the Wales squad after a personal disagreement with manager John Toshack, Collins is determined not to stay out of his thoughts for too long.

"I took a bang to the hip in my last game and I've been having treatment and working with physio Pete Friar," said Collins. "I'm just hoping to get myself right and I've been trying to keep ticking over.

"I'm obviously keen to play as much as I can for my country and I'm delighted to be back in the squad these days.

"John Toshack and I had a few words last year but we have agreed to put it behind us. We've sorted things out between us and he has put me back in the squad."

Collins knows that his club form has been the decisive factor in his recall to the international fold and he hopes to preserve his place with impressive displays in the Premiership next season.

But he is realistic enough to know that competition for places will be increased come August.

"The manager will be bringing in some new players and we know we have to improve on what happened the last time we were in the Premiership. I'm sure we will do that."

Sunderland have been linked with a move for Blackburn Rovers defender Andy Todd.