Former Leicester Boss Steve Cooper Linked with Middlesbrough Amid Carrick Pressure
Just months after departing Leicester City, Steve Cooper has emerged as a potential candidate for the Middlesbrough job, with pressure mounting on current manager Michael Carrick.
Cooper endured a tough spell at Leicester, winning just two of his first 12 matches before being dismissed in November, paving the way for Ruud van Nistelrooy’s appointment. Since then, he has remained out of management, taking a break after a hectic few years in the dugout.
Championship Success with Nottingham Forest
Despite his struggles at Leicester, Cooper has previously thrived in the Championship. In 2021, he took charge of a struggling Nottingham Forest side languishing at the bottom of the table and orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, guiding them to Premier League promotion via the play-offs in 2022.
With Carrick’s Middlesbrough losing five of their last six games, speculation is growing that the club may look to Cooper as a potential savior. The former Manchester United midfielder was even booed off the pitch following Boro’s 1-0 defeat to Watford on Saturday.
Carrick Acknowledges Difficult Situation
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Carrick admitted the club is facing a difficult period.
“There’s no sugar-coating it, we’re in a tough spot at the moment,” he said. “You could feel it today, and we need to face the reality that results haven’t been what we’d like. The players’ attitude is top-class, they’re desperate to do the right things, but when confidence dips, it becomes harder to perform.”
Despite their recent slump, Boro remain 11th in the table with a game in hand, thanks to a strong start to the season.
Cooper Reportedly Not Interested in Immediate Return
While rumors swirl, talkSPORT reports that Cooper is not currently interested in taking the Middlesbrough job, preferring an extended break after his Leicester exit just 12 weeks ago.
