Collins is a big fan of the new winger at Upton Park.
Following a 2-0 opening day win over Cardiff City in the Premier League, West Ham United defender James Collins has praised former Liverpool midfielder Stewart Downing.
The Hammers signed Downing from the Reds for around £5m this summer, after the 29-year-old was unimpressive during two years at Anfield following a £20m move from Aston Villa.
However, Collins believes the east London club have got an ‘absolute bargain’ for the Englishman after the player made his debut for West Ham on Saturday after coming off the bench.
“He looked very sharp,” the centre-back was quoted on goal.com.
“He’s got loads of England caps so we’ve got a great signing there. I think we have got an absolute bargain.
“Obviously it didn’t go well at Liverpool but hopefully we can get him firing.”
Goals from Joe Cole and Kevin Nolan secured a comfortable victory for Sam Allardyce’s side over the Blue Birds and West Ham are hoping to kick on this season following a positive return to the top flight last term.
Despite having only just returned to the Premier League from the Championship in 2012, under Allardyce’s guidance the club achieved a top 10 finish.
Several new acquisitions have been brought in during the close season, including Downing’s former team mate at Anfield Andy Carroll.
After spending £20m on the England duo, the Irons will be hoping to see more promise from the pair than either achieved on Merseyside.
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