James Collins stars in Luton's thrilling draw with Middlesbrough

James Collins may have raised some eyebrows when Mick McCarthy called him up to the Republic of Ireland squad in March, but then, as now, he continues to prove his doubters just don't know him all that well.

Collins was on hand to score Luton Town's equaliser in the 85th minute in the opening game of The Championship in front of a fervent home support of over 10,000 at Kenilworth Road Stadium.

Collins could have even won it for the home side in added time when his shot was well saved by Darren Randolph who pulled off a fine stop.

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Collins was a massive contributor to Luton's promotion last season to The Championship. In fact, he was also central to his sides promotion from League Two to League One, in the 2017/18 season.

There was plenty of Irish interest in Bedfordshire, not just with Collins and Randolph playing pivotal roles in a game played at a frantic pace, but also Robbie Keane, who is now a part of Jonathan Woodgate's coaching set-up.

Collins performance, goal and ability to move up a level again, won't be lost on McCarthy.