the 2007–08 season saw wolves miss out on the play-offs on goal difference with collins making 42 appearances. collins started 2008–09 strongly with wolves but was left out of the first team with the loan arrival of michael mancienne from chelsea. when mancienne returned to chelsea in the new year, collins returned to the side, partnering richard stearman. he contributed several important goals during this period, but was soon ousted from the side again after receiving a red card for dissent at reading and following the addition of scottish international christophe berra. he remained out of the side for the remainder of the season as the club were promoted to the premier league as champions, and was transfer listed in july 2009.