James Collins delighted with winning return to West Ham United side

West Ham United defender James Collins has revealed that he was delighted to return to the starting lineup in a winning effort as his side defeated Crystal Palace.

The 32-year-old had not started in the Premier League for the Hammers this season until Slaven Bilic called upon his services at Selhurst Park.

Collins was part of the side that secured a 3-1 win over the Eagles thanks to goals from Carl Jenkinson, Manuel Lanzini and Dimitri Payet to cap a good fortnight for the defender as it followed Wales's qualification for Euro 2016.

He told the club's official website: "It was amazing to be back in the starting lineup. The gaffer told me on Friday when I got back from Wales that I'd be playing and I was excited from then.

"It's been a long time since I started a Premier League game and to be on the winning side is great. It's been a great couple of weeks – I'm still celebrating and on the crest of a wave. Hopefully it can continue for a long time.

"We had to work hard for the three points on Saturday. We knew it was going to be a tough game because Palace have been playing very well. We matched them at the start and then obviously got the goal. We were unfortunate to then concede a penalty but we're delighted with the three points as always away from home."

West Ham moved up into fourth place in the Premier League following their win over Palace.