Leeds like Cooper because he keeps the equilibrium intact
Leeds United centre-back Liam Cooper has constantly come under criticism from the fans since the Elland Road outfit secured Premier League promotion.
Many believe that the Scotland international, 30, is not good enough for the top-flight, but he has played every minute of the campaign so far and is a key player for Marcelo Bielsa.
Cooper might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but he is unlikely to be moved on by Leeds anytime soon given how important he is in the dressing room.
According to The Athletic journalist Phil Hay, the defender is well admired by the club and Bielsa.
He wrote on their website: “They rate Cooper at Leeds because, even at his age, he can adapt to cope with a battering ram like Adama Traore.
“They like him because behind the scenes, he keeps the equilibrium intact. He is not a classic captain, not as loud as someone like Luke Ayling, but Bielsa likes to include him in meetings with individual players and the coaching staff noticed how good he is with [Pascal] Struijk when Struijk is in the team and threatening to take his place.”
True skipper
Cooper will not win a lot of people over, but every club needs someone with his character, and it is not surprising that he has lasted this long playing for the Argentine.
Not many Leeds fans rate him, but he is definitely doing something right to have been a mainstay in Bielsa’s plans for almost four years despite what the critics say.
With Diego Llorente and Robin Koch constantly battling with fitness since joining, having Cooper has always come in very handy.
He featured in 25 league games last term, and while he is not first-choice when everyone is available, the skipper has remained relevant.
He is not the most convincing centre-back around, but he is definitely not the worst and still has something to offer at the moment.
Leeds could look to bring in reinforcements at the back next summer, but it would not be surprising if Cooper continues to play a key role on the pitch and behind the scenes.
In other Leeds United news, Raphinha has brutally mocked Norwich ace on Instagram after Sunday victory.