Collins told The Guardian this week that he is installing punch bags and a boxing ring in the gym and will set the players against each other to help with their discipline. "I've had six bags put in the gym and a boxing ring goes in next week. The players will box twice a week. I'm a great believer in boxing, what it teaches you about concentration, respect and how to rest," he said. And he is confident with the club now officially out of administration and John Courtenay able to invest for the first time, the Cumbrians will soon climb out of the basement and up towards the play-offs, which he believes United can reach by the end of this season. "We're only 10 points off it now, and we can only get better," he said. United take on Swansea today in a six-pointer against the side one place above them, the two clubs separated only by goal difference. New signing Des Byrne is expected to make his debut in a reshaped defence that will be lacking Darren Kelly due to suspension. Mark Summerbell also misses out because of a one-match ban and Will McDonagh could take his place at the heart of midfield. Collins must decide whether to continue with one striker up front or reunite John Sutton and Craig Farrell. Lee Maddison is in contention to return to the side after being out for two months. The Cumbrians have scored six goals in the past week, getting a valuable point at Macclesfield before pulling off a dramatic golden goal 4-3 win at Oldham in the LDV Vans Trophy on Tuesday night. On-loan midfielder Leon Osman has been the catalyst for their improved form with three goals in those two games and some excellent performances. Last night Hartlepool opened up a six-point gap at the top with a 1-0 win at Southend. Picture from News & Star |
