Liam Cooper could not have asked for a better send off from Elland Road in Leeds United’s 4-0 win over Norwich City.
Cooper is out of contract at Leeds next month and is not expected to be offered a new deal, which will bring an end to his incredible 10-year spell at the club.
With just two Championship starts in 2024, Cooper has played more of a bit-part role this season but was brought on for the final 10 minutes of last night’s victory.
Cooper was serenaded for much of the night every time he warmed up in front of the West Stand, and his introduction from the bench brought one of the loudest cheers of the night.
Daniel Farke handled his farewell in the perfect possible way and as he alluded to in the pre-match programme notes, Cooper is determined to sign off his time at Leeds with another promotion.
Cooper acknowledged Elland Road send off in 90th minute
Prior to last night, Cooper had not played a single minute of football since he was brought back into the starting XI against Watford on March 29.
He endured a difficult evening at Vicarage Road, with it quickly becoming clear the decision to pick him and break up Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu’s partnership was the wrong one.
Leeds are now undoubtedly a better side without him in it, but that does not take away from how much he has brought to the club following his £600,000 arrival from Chesterfield in 2014.
Clearly supporters were keen to show their appreciation to the captain as much as they possible could, and according to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Cooper returned the favour.
As Dan James stepped up to take a free-kick, Leeds fans chanted, ‘if Cooper scores, we’re on the pitch,’ which wasn’t the first one directed towards him on the night.
Cooper then proceeded to blow a kiss towards the Kop end from inside the penalty area, as he displayed his love for the crowd in what was undoubtedly an emotional night for him.
Where will Cooper go once Leeds exit is officially confirmed?
Despite his lack of minutes this season, Cooper is still undoubtedly a decent centre-back at this level and he shouldn’t be short of interest.
It will be difficult for him to go and play for someone other than his boyhood club, but being the model professional he is, he shouldn’t have much of a problem.
Blackburn Rovers were keen on signing him back in January and it would not be a surprise if that is the calibre of side he ends up joining.