Collins is a former Royal Marine, PE teacher and sports psychologist

British athletes won 11 medals in Gothenburg, one more than had Collins predicted but four golds down on Munich 2002 and eight down on Budapest 1998.

Collins said: "I'm wholly satisfied that we've performed to spec.

"We know that we're weak, but the main thing is that we've got a plan and we're moving forward."

Collins has come under fire for the lacklustre performances of the British team in the last 18 months.

He was also criticised for a controversial grading system where he gave athletes marks out of 10 for their efforts.

We have to get better, but it's a good start Dave Collins

But five medals on the final day of competition saved Britain from the ignominy of its worst European Championships in 40 years.

Collins said: "I wish people would get behind the plan and give it a chance to work.

"We deliberately gave young guys an opportunity to come here and they've performed.

"It's part of the plan and we're moving forward. We have to get better, but it's a good start.

"It's nice for everyone involved in the programme because we've taken a panning over the last few days in the press."