Collins has been a consistent performer this season

Sunderland defender Danny Collins has revealed the prospect of leaving the club helped drive him to the club's player of the season award.

The 27-year-old Welshman had to fight for his place earlier in the season but eventually convinced manager Roy Keane to restore him to the side.

"I told the gaffer I'm keen on staying and I want to fight for my place in the side," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"I got back in, worked hard and the gaffer has seen that and kept me in."

Collins has been with the Black Cats since 2004 and along with his family feels settled on Wearside - something he realised when his future with the club seemed bleak.

With that in mind the battling full-back was delighted to have received the player of the season from the supporters.

"I was disappointed, and my missus was as disappointed as I was in the fact I thought I might be leaving, coming off the back of 40 odd games the season before," he said.

"It's pleasing, the comments from the public and the fans and picking up the award tonight was really special."