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Wales football star James Collins has sent a wonderful message to the little boy he blasted in the face with a ball last night, admitting: "I should stick to defending!"

Six-year-old Ryan Evans received the shock of his life after a wayward shot from the West Ham defender hit him squarely in the face as he sat behind one of the goals during the pre-game warm-up.

Concerned Collins climbed into the stands to check on the young fan, later giving him Gareth Bale's shirt after medical staff checked Ryan over.

And, after Ryan's Dad, Darren, thanked Collins on WalesOnline this morning , the Premier League star, who won his 50th cap against Moldova, sent this lovely message to the family.

"So glad to hear that he's ok, I'm very sorry, it was an awful shot," Collins wrote

"I've got three children myself so would understand how concerned it probably made you feel and how upset it must have made Ryan.

"I should probably stick to defending and not shooting!!

"If you would send me your address and Ryan's clothes and shoe size I will get a few West Ham and Nike bits sent down to him to say sorry.

"Hope you enjoyed the game last night and thanks for your support as always. Ginge xx."

Ryan and his family were allowed to move seats by Cardiff City Stadium staff following the incident and went on to enjoy a wonderful night as Wales started their World Cup campaign with a 4-0 win.