MICHAEL Collins says he was moved by the support from Oxford United’s fans and staff during a difficult time earlier this month.

The midfielder’s newborn baby daughter Nyla was rushed to hospital with breathing difficulties the night before United’s game at Southend.

Collins spent two nights at the Oxford Children’s Hospital before his daughter was released following a series of tests.

Thankfully she is on the mend, but the 28-year-old appreciated the backing he received from United and their supporters.

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He said: “It’s just one of those unfortunate things and I certainly don’t want to ever experience it again.

“But I was touched by the way the club dealt with it and the support I’ve had from fans.

“I can’t thank the staff at the Oxford Children’s Hospital enough, they were superb as well.

“The only way I can repay that is by hopefully doing it out on the pitch.”

Collins was as good as his word, scoring his first United goal during Tuesday’s 3-1 win over Accrington Stanley.

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