Collins to captain Wales against Sweden

Collins, who led Wales on his last appearance against Liechtenstein in October, was given the nod by coach John Toshack on Tuesday. Swansea defender Ashley Williams, who has proved his fitness for the game after a dead leg, was also thought to have been in the reckoning.

Toshack's official captain remains Craig Bellamy, but the Manchester City striker has been overlooked for this friendly fixture.

Collins, who missed the win over Scotland in November through injury, said: "It's good to be back. I'm not too happy with the amount of games I've played for Wales through injury but hopefully I'm over them now.

"I was proud to be captain over in Liechtenstein and we got a good result out there so I will be looking to keep that going.

"It is going to be a tougher game but I am looking forward to it.

"I've played under some great captains for Wales and my clubs, a lot of experienced boys, and got some good tips.

"I'm proud to play for Wales and doubly as proud to be captain."

Scotland take on the Czech Republic at Hampden on Wednesday night, with manager Craig Levein confirming that Lee McCulloch is 99.9 per cent to miss out.

McCulloch came out of international retirement to play under Levein after controversially withdrawing himself from selection during George Burley's reign.

The player last represented his country in the European Championship qualifying defeat against Italy in November 2007.

Levein said: "There is a 99.9 per cent chance that he is out.

"He has shown a significant improvement, but is looking very unlikely."

Levein also revealed James McFadden (groin) and Lee Wallace (head) remain doubts.