Collins scored nine goals in his time at Wolves

Leeds United have signed Preston North End defender Neill Collins on loan until the end of the season.

He will provide cover for Patrick Kisnorbo, who will miss the rest of the season with an Achilles injury.

The 26-year-old Scot began his career at Queen's Park and has helped both Sunderland and Wolves win promotion to the Premier League.

He joined Preston on loan at the start of the current season before signing a three-and-a-half-year deal in January.

Former Preston manager Alan Irvine signed Collins after 17 loan appearances for the Deepdale club, but the defender has figured just five times under new manager Darren Ferguson.

Leeds United manager Simon Grayson told the club website that he was delighted to have Collins on board.

"Due to Paddy's injury on Monday night I felt it was important to bring someone in," he said.

"Neill has good experience at Sunderland, Wolves and Preston, and he will have an important role to play.

"He is an aggressive centre-back who I think will be a big addition to the squad at what is an important time."

Collins will go straight into the United squad to face leaders Norwich at Carrow Road on Saturday.

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