One former Leeds United icon is set to become a free agent, but will he come back to Elland Road?
Whispers are growing louder that a beloved former Leeds United captain and fan favourite, who ventured abroad less than a year ago, is poised to become a free agent once more.
Reports suggest his contract with his current club is set to be terminated by mutual consent.
This unexpected turn in his journey, coming so soon after leaving Elland Road, opens up a compelling question: could a homecoming be on the cards?
Especially in light of Jonny Howson’s recent return in a player-coach capacity, this situation presents a tantalising possibility for another much-loved figure to contribute to Leeds United back in West Yorkshire.
- READ MORE: ‘My head went’… Ben Parker shares what Jonny Howson told him after Leeds beat Middlesbrough
Liam Cooper set to leave CSKA Sofia and become free agent
It has been reported that former Leeds United captain and Scotland international, Liam Cooper, is set to leave CSKA Sofia by mutual consent, according to the Daily Record.
The defender ended a lengthy spell at Leeds United to join the Bulgarian side last September.
However, they have failed to win their opening two games this season and now reports in the Bulgarian capital say Cooper is set to leave in order to find a new club.
To say Cooper could come back to Elland Road, would be music to the ears of the Leeds faithful given his momentous impact throughout his time at the club.
Liam Cooper never forgot his beloved Leeds, praising Ethan Ampadu after their win versus Preston this season, Cooper was part of the Marcelo Bielsa era, and has often spoken of Bielsa’s marvellous ways.
Jonny Howson’s recent move could inspire Liam Cooper
Earlier this week it was announced that former Leeds United captain Jonny Howson had returned to the club after 13 years with Norwich City and Middlesbrough.
Prior to that, the 37-year-old spent six years in Leeds United’s first-team. The midfielder joined the club aged nine in 1997, progressing through the academy and becoming captain.
He is set to become a player-coach of the U-21 team after leaving Boro, and Leeds fans are delighted at the idea of Howson’s return to a club he appeared 225 times for.
Howson’s return could be an inspiration for Liam Cooper, as Howson’s new player-coach role presents a tangible pathway for a respected club icon to return and contribute.
Given Cooper’s immense reputation and leadership during his decade at Elland Road, including captaining the club back to the Premier League, a similar player-coach position could be a perfect fit.
He could offer invaluable experience and guidance to the next generation of Leeds talent, mirroring Howson’s role. Many fans would undoubtedly welcome Cooper back, eager to see him involved with the club in any capacity.
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