Aston Villa defender James Collins says he has no grudge against West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola.

Collins was sold by Zola in the final days of the summer market to Villa.

The Wales international told the Daily Mail: "There was speculation that I was leaving because of the club's financial situation. So, I spoke to the manager and the vibe I was getting was that I would be off. I had no issue with Gianfranco Zola. I have nothing but respect for him.

"Even since I've been at Villa, he's sent me the odd text asking me how I'm settling in - or whether I'm behaving myself."