Swans boss Cooper relishing Liberty opportunity

Swansea City’s new head coach Steve Cooper is relishing the opportunity to make his mark at the Liberty Stadium.

Cooper, 39, left his post as coach of England’s World Cup winning under-17 side today to sign a three-year contract with the Swans.

And the Pontypridd-born coach believes his footballing vision is aligned to that of the club and the fans.

“This opportunity is something I’ve been working towards my whole life, certainly since I started coaching 22 years ago,’’ said Cooper. “And I’m extremely grateful to Swansea for giving me this chance.

“I’m really excited about the challenge ahead. I had three interview meetings with chairman Trevor Birch, Leon (Britton) and Alan (Curtis. It was all incredibly positive.

“I have already done a huge amount of homework on the playing style, the squad and plans for pre- season. Now I just can’t wait to get started.’’

The Swans chairman confirmed that they were targeting a head coach who was hungry, ambitious, had a clear track record of playing the Swansea Way and a pedigree to work with and develop young, talented players.

“Steve matched all those requirements in abundance and his views, coaching ethos and presentation were extremely compelling,’’ confirmed Birch.

And Cooper, who arrives with the experienced Mike Marsh as his right-hand man, is confident he can reward the faith the club has shown in him with his appointment.

“I’m going to be my own football man,’’ added Cooper. “But I know what style and quality of football the fans demand. It matches my vision perfectly.’’

Cooper is expected to meet the media next week and expand on his plans for the forthcoming Championship campaign.

Swansea City would like to thank The FA for their cooperation in releasing both Steve and Mike from their international duties.

FA technical director, Les Reed, said: “I would like to place on record our thanks to Steve and Mike for their outstanding work and achievements here at The FA.

“One of our key objectives is for the England senior team being ready to win the World Cup in 2022, and both Steve and Mike played a pivotal part in developing players and our teams as we work towards that goal.

“They both fully embraced the work being done at St. George’s Park around coaching and the player pathway and are innovative and collaborative coaches.

“Of course, their landmark moment was winning the U17 World Cup and showing that England teams can achieve great things on the international stage.

“Steve and Mike leave The FA with the best wishes of everyone and are always welcome back here at St. George’s Park.”