Aston Villa defender James Collins is eager to open new contract talks.

Collins joined Villa two years ago from West Ham and is keen to tie up his long-term future with the club.

He told Villa's official website: "I'd love to extend my contract here and stay at Villa as long as I can.

"As long as the manager is happy and the fans are then I'd like to stay here as long as possible. I've only just turned 28 so I think my best years are definitely still in front of me.

"I am not too bothered about how much I have left on my current deal.

"It's more about if I'm performing well and the club want to give me a new contract that would be great, because I would love to stay as long as possible.

"I am enjoying my time here and enjoying playing under the current manager. Since I've been here everyone has been great.

"My family have settled in the area so if the opportunity was to come I'd love to sign another contract."