The Scotsman becomes our new Head Coach, joining the Reds on a two-year deal from Tampa Bay Rowdies in the United States.
Born in Troon, Scotland, on 2 September 1983, Collins began his career with Scottish amateur club Queen's Park, making his first-team debut in 2001.
He moved to Dumbarton in 2003, before making his first venture to England to join Sunderland in 2004. Barnsley-born Mick McCarthy was the manager to bring Collins south of the border.
McCarthy spoke exclusively to Barnsley FC regarding the appointment of Collins: "Well, I’m delighted for the club and Neill that Barnsley have appointed him. He’s a great fella who has always worked hard and got the best out of himself.
"I know he’s done well in Florida but he is very ambitious and it shows how much he wants to be coaching in the football league by leaving Florida, where he had been successful and had a great lifestyle for him and his family."
However, Collins failed to break into the first team at Sunderland and was loaned out to Hartlepool United, Sheffield United and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
In 2010, Collins signed for Leeds United on a permanent basis. He made 32 appearances for the Whites over the next four seasons, helping the club to promotion to the Championship in 2010.
Collins returned to Bramall Lane for a second time in 2011, spending five years with the Blades. After making 216 appearances and forging a solid partnership with Harry Maguire at the back, the 39-year-old departed South Yorkshire for Florida in 2016, plying his trade for the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
During his time in S1, Collins was managed by Reds legendary boss Danny Wilson between 2011-2013. Our new Head Coach's former gaffer praised the centre-half's mentality when chatting to BFC: "Neill is a terrific signing.
"Neill is a great guy, very professional, a leader, honest but doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He did a great job in USA, and I still message him now and again.
"It’s a great move all round."
After hanging up his boots in May 2018, Collins was appointed as the head coach of Tampa Bay Rowdies. He has led the Rowdies to two playoff appearances in his three seasons in charge and was named USL Championship Manager of the Year.
Collins joins the Reds and returns to South Yorkshire for the first time since making the switch across the Atlantic.
