Collins, 22 is expected to make his debut at Hillsborough today in the much awaited all City derby between the two clubs of Sheffield with United struggling in defence with David Unsworth suspended whilst Leigh Bromby and Craig Short could both miss out due to injury.
The Scottish U-21 international centre-half spent four months on loan at Hartlepool United last August, playing 25 games for the League One outfit.
He has played just two games for the Black Cats this season, both in the FA Cup. He played, and scored in the 3-0 home win over Northwich Victoria in round 3 and in the following win in that much covered loss at Brentford.
Sunderland have the option to re-call Collins after completing 28 days of his loan period.