NEILL COLLINS says playing alongside someone who understands him has helped get over the language barrier.

The 22-year-old defender joked he has had a few communication problems since arriving on Wearside from Dumbarton last August. But having fellow Scot Steve Caldwell play alongside him each week has made the job a little easier - because they both understand what the other is saying.

"It probably does make a difference having two Scots at centre half as we can understand each other a wee bit better," quipped the £25,000 signing.

"I'm not saying there isn't a good understanding when I'm with Gary Breen, but having another Scotsman about the club is great, and Kevin Kyle too."

Collins deputised for the injured Breen on Saturday and again the young Scot's towering performance ensured the Black Cats' skipper wasn't missed.

Collins has made ten appearances for the Black Cats since arrival at the Stadium of Light and his performance in Saturday's FA Cup third-round victory over Crystal Palace was arguably his best yet.

The stopper passed the difficult test of keeping Andy Johnson quiet with honours.

Collins now hopes his performance against the Eagles will secure an extended run in the side, after admitting his frustration at not being involved in the first-team picture more this season.

"There's nothing more disappointing than sitting on the sidelines or on the bench," he confessed. "You want to be playing and I got the chance to play. Hopefully I have done myself justice and I can keep my place. If I don't, I'll just keep my head down and try and get back in the team."

Collins' clash with Johnson on Saturday has only served to whet his appetite for more action against top-flight opposition.

Although Collins gets his wish in the shape of Everton in the FA Cup fourth round later this month, he says he wants to pit his wits against the Premiership's best week in, week out.

He said: "Everyone is desperate to get to the Premier League. When I look at the players in the Sunderland team, I think they'll be able to hold their own in the Premiership.

"But it is up to us now to kick on. It is an important part of the season and we're sitting in a great position."

Collins' development since he arrived from Scottish Division Two outfit Dumbarton has been phenomenal.

The Troon-born defender has made the transition comfortably but admitted it has helped having a manager who played in the same position.

"He has been a massive help and he's a great all-round manager," admitted Collins. "His man-management since I've been here is brilliant. I've come into the team and I think I've done well and then I've found myself back out.

"But he talks to you and explains why and he never leaves you in any doubt as to his decisions, which is all you can ask in a manager. He is doing an unbelievable job here."

The atrocious weather on Saturday contributed to the Sunderland's second worst attendance of the season of 17,536 but the home supporters ensured a cracking cup-tie atmosphere.

Collins said: "The crowds here are absolutely unbelievable.

"The fans make some great noise and that makes a massive difference.''

Julio Arca is sweating on his fitness for Sunderland's televised trip to Derby. There are hopes that he will have recovered from a knee injury in time to face the Rams.

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