Toshack was scathing of Wales' performance against Cyprus

Toshack's team lost 3-1 in Cyprus on Saturday and the manager said he "must be doing something wrong".

But secretary general Collins said: "It is a matter of rebuilding. The Football Association of Wales and the public have to be patient."

Toshack signed a five-year deal with the FAW and Collins wants him to see out the remaining two years.

Interview: Wales manager John Toshack

We had to totally rebuild the side after we lost so many senior players when John took over FAW secretary general David Collins

"When the FAW appointed him [in 2004], they did so for five years knowing it was going to be a long haul to get the side back to where we hoped it would be," added Collins.

"That's been borne out throughout this campaign - it's been very much highs and lows.

"We acknowledged the fact that we had to totally rebuild the side after we lost so many senior players when John took over.

"We've lost a considerable number of senior players since through retirement and injury.

"Everyone wants to see a winning side obviously. The fans that were there on Saturday - I feel very sorry them.

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"They paid hard-earned money to come and didn't see a match they could be proud of."

Toshack was said to be "exceptionally low" after Wales crumbled to a hugely disappointing Euro 2008 qualifying defeat in Nicosia on Saturday.

The 58-year-old has remained tight-lipped after revealing in his post-match interview he would have to "look at himself".

Collins refused to answer when asked on Monday if Toshack had contemplated resigning.

But after a series of meetings with his management staff, the FAW and the players on Sunday, Toshack appears to be committed to the job.

"Following the match John made his views quite plain to the players with regard to the performance," added Collins.

"You will have read numerous comments from the players since who have held up their hands."

The squad arrived in Italy on Monday ahead of Wednesday's qualifier with Group D whipping boys San Marino - a game Wales "must win" according to Collins.

San Marino have lost all 10 of their qualifying matches in this campaign, conceding 50 goals in the process, and lost 3-0 in the corresponding fixture in Cardiff last March.

Wales wanted to finish the group strongly in order to clinch third place and receive a higher seeding when the draw for the 2010 World Cup qualifiers is made.

But Collins said the results of Wales' final three matches will have no bearing on their seeding for next month's draw, which will comprise eight groups consisting of six teams.