MICHAEL Collins has joined Bengaluru in India a fortnight after being released by Oxford United.

The midfielder had not appeared for the U’s since the end of last season and earlier this month agreed to terminate his contract.

As a free agent the 29-yearold was always likely to find a new club easily, but few would have predicted a move to the I-League.

The U’s have links with Bengaluru, managed by Ashley Westwood, who was part of Michael Appleton’s coaching staff at Portsmouth, Blackpool and Blackburn Rovers.

Striker Udanta Singh came over last summer on an extended trial, with Appleton suggesting it may mark the start of closer ties between the clubs.

Collins, who is due to travel to India in the next few days, told the club's wesbite: “I’m very excited to start this chapter of my career.

“I got a call from the gaffer who gave me a lowdown about the league and more, after which I had a word with my family and decided that this is the right time in my career to try something new. “ He added: “There’s no time to settle in and I’m going to have to blend in right away.

“But I don’t think that should be a worry because I’ve been keeping myself fit.

“I can’t wait to come over.”