Cooper out to impress

The former Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest defender, 44, who spent four years as coach at The Riverside before leaving last summer, has been offered a similar short-term deal to that of manager Peter Jackson.

Cooper said: "The current week-to-week situation with the gaffer isn't a problem at all. I'm in the same position as him - we are both trying to impress.

"I've been out of work for 10 months since leaving Middlesbrough, but I've only been looking to get back into work since the start of the year.

"When I got the phone call from Peter, it was something I was instantly interested in. It's great for me to get back into coaching and get back onto the training field, it's what I love and I've certainly missed it.

"I know Peter's enthusiasm has already rubbed off on the players, so hopefully I can add my part as well to ensure that we have a successful end to the season."

Source: PA

Source: PA