Phil Hay explains why Leeds mainstay may exit, his situation is different to Max Wober

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Phil Hay has written in his latest piece for The Athletic that Liam Cooper could still leave Leeds United and join Saudi Arabian side Al-Qadsiah, managed by Robbie Fowler – explaining why his situation is different to that of Max Wober.

Wober, of course, left Leeds to join Gladbach on loan. A player that finds himself fighting for a place in Austria’s Euro 2024 squad – and feeling that a move to a top-tier side helps that. Clearly, he will have spoken with Ralf Rangnick.

Cooper is in a similar position to Wober in that sense, that Scotland will also likely be at Euro 2024. That is, after four wins from four, leading by eight points in Group A of Euro 2024 qualifying. Cooper is a bit-part option for Scotland.

But that is where the similarities end. Cooper is 31, entering the latter third of his professional career. Hay reports that he is in the final year of his deal, and a new offer has not been forthcoming as of yet. Fowler wants him in Saudi.

The ex-Leeds striker has already landed Joel Robles at Al-Qadsiah, who sit in the second tier of Saudi football. An offer is on the table for Cooper and Hay even claims that his injury on Sunday could tempt Cooper even further.

“Leeds predicted certain exits, but Wober’s loan was the first kick in the teeth, the first they had hoped to avoid. Cooper, their captain, has Saudi Arabian interest which might tempt him. Wober’s exit was a proper defection.

“Cooper is different; into his thirties, with 12 months left on his contract and no extension handed to him yet. Future earnings must have a certain appeal, particularly as he waits on news of the twisted ankle he suffered,” Hay said.

Hay says Cooper could still leave Leeds and join Fowler’s Al-Qadsiah

A massive kick in the teeth, as Hay says regarding Wober’s departure, should Cooper go too. Daniel Farke said we “desperately need” Cooper after his injury against Cardiff, rolling his ankle after scoring our first goal of the season.

One could hardly argue with Cooper if he did decide to go. Nine years of service, 266 games, ever-present apart from a few injuries. He has worn his heart on his sleeve. A true leader. But, one we currently need more than ever.