Whelan thrilled by Cooper update that’s ‘fantastic for Leeds’
Leeds United could be handed a “fantastic” boost thanks to Liam Cooper’s international exploits with Scotland.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted he was thrilled to see the centre-back starring on international duty
The 29-year-old played just over an hour in Scotland’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on Wednesday.
He is part of Steve Clarke’s squad heading into this summer’s European Championships.
Cooper played just four times in Leeds’ final 11 games due to suspension and injury problems.
Whelan suggested a Euros campaign with Scotland would see him return to Elland Road fit and firing ahead of the new season.
Whelan told Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge: “It‘s great for Liam. Obviously, he’s had suspensions and little injuries during the campaign.
“Now he’s back to full fitness. There’s competition all over the board there now for the centre-half spots at the beginning of next season.
“For him to have a good major tournament as well and put himself out there on the platform, and perform as well as he did the other night, that’s absolutely great for the club.
“It’s fantastic for Leeds, Scotland and Liam Cooper going through into the tournament.”
Marcelo Bielsa also has Diego Llorente, Robin Koch and Pascal Struijk to call upon at centre-back.
Scotland play their final warm-up game against Luxembourg on Sunday.
They kick off their Euro campaign against the Czech Republic and will also face England and Croatia in the group stage.
In other news, Leeds United have been offered attacker Bielsa has signed before.