New Plymouth Argyle manager Wayne Rooney wants to tie down goalkeeper Michael Cooper before his contract ends next season, Alan Nixon has reported.
Devon-born Cooper extended his contract with Plymouth Argyle in March last year, allowing him to focus on rehabilitation for his ACL injury which kept him out for the rest of the season. This added one year to his previous contract, committing him to the club until 2025.
Cooper, an academy graduate, has been the Greens’ first choice between the sticks since the 20-21 season, putting in a total of 141 appearances. Argyle bought in Conor Hazard as cover for him last season, but as soon as the 24-year-old was fit he was back on the team sheet. He will be hoping for a full season in the championship under his belt
As one of the best young keepers in the league, Cooper has been watched by clubs in the Championship and above, especially after his excellent performance in the 2022 FA Cup against Chelsea where he aided Argyle’s resolute defence in keeping the score at 1-1 until the 105th minute. His save percentage in that game was 81%.
With the departure of Callum Burton, it would mean bringing Cooper’s contract in line with current backup Conor Hazard’s contract.
Another injury-free season and being in contract would mean if the club did sell him they would be able to profit rather than potentially seeing an asset walk out the door for nothing.
Can Plymouth afford to lose Michael Cooper?
Finding a solid and reliable number one can prove difficult for even the most prepared clubs in the EFL. Get the decision wrong and it can derail your season, get it right and it will not only impact what happens between the sticks but also the defensive line. Plymouth have shown a great level of faith in Cooper, allowing him to extend his contract to recover from a serious injury. Had the club not appreciated him as a viable option they could have just allowed him to leave and cut their losses, but they were willing to wait. It is not necessarily whether they can afford to lose him or not, it is whether he gives them a better opportunity to survive in the second tier, which I would argue he does, so tying him down will benefit the player as he regains his confidence and the club in the long run.