Danny Collins makes West Ham United switch

Stoke City defender Danny Collins has moved to West Ham United on a loan deal lasting until the end of the season.

The 31-year-old has failed to keep a regular spot in Tony Pulis's starting lineup and spent a stint at Ipswich Town earlier this season.

Hammers boss Sam Allardyce targeted the former Sunderland player in a bid to strengthen his defensive cover.

"West Ham are going well in the league and looking for promotion," Collins told the club's official website. "They are having a good season so this was a chance for me to come out on loan and get some games in.

"I went out on loan to Ipswich earlier this season and played 16 games there and I've played a few games for Stoke, but I want to be playing week-in, week-out if I can. Hopefully I can come down here, get myself into the team and be part of it."

Collins, who will wear the number 25 shirt, is available to play in the Championship side's home fixture against Doncaster Rovers.