Leicester City have explained the decision behind the appointment of Steve Cooper as the club’s new manager.
After achieving promotion to the Premier League, Enzo Maresca completed a move to Chelsea which left Leicester City in a difficult situation.
Former Brighton & Hove Albion manager Graham Potter was one of the names understood to be of interest to take the reins at the King Power Stadium but the Foxes have instead opted for the Welshman Steve Cooper.
Cooper’s last job in the Premier League came with Nottingham Forest but he was dismissed last season at the City Ground and was replaced by former Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
Leicester explain decision behind Cooper appointment
There had been some surprise that Cooper had been given the job at the King Power Stadium but the Foxes have explained their decision.
“We are delighted to welcome Steve to Leicester City,” Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha told the club’s website. “His vision for the team, including his ability to develop players and implement a dynamic style of play, is very much aligned with our aspirations for the Club.
“As a leader, he has the ability to build on the strong relationship that has been forged between our fans and our team, strengthening a bond that will be vital to us re-establishing the Club in the Premier League.”
Cooper said: “I am excited to work with such a talented squad and I’m looking forward to the challenge of achieving our shared ambitions in the Premier League.”
Cooper could be a brilliant appointment at Leicester City
Cooper guided Forest from near the bottom of the Championship to the Premier League during his spell in the East Midlands.
After achieving promotion, Forest brought in a whole host of new players and there could have been a worry that the club may go straight back down but the Welshman masterminded their top flight survival.
Cooper has also had previous spells at Swansea City and England’s under 17 side, where he guided the teenage side to World Cup success.
Going into a stable environment like Leicester could be exactly what he needs and he could flourish.