Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has hailed the commitment and courage of defender James Collins.

Collins, 26, has been an inspiration since his £5million summer move from West Ham.

On Sunday he needed six stitches in a head wound during the 5-2 win over Burnley.

And ahead of tonight's FA Cup replay at home to Crystal Palace, Villa boss O'Neill said: "His stitches have started to weep a bit and it might come down to having protection.

"What happened on Sunday typifies him. He is leading through example."