World News – USA – Cooper’s touching Houllier story as boss delivers a devastating injury update

Steve Cooper spoke about the death of Gerard Houllier and conveyed the news of devastating injury damage in Swansea City

Steve Cooper paid a touching tribute to the « brilliant » Gerard Houllier after the tragic death of the Frenchman.

Coaches and players from around the world of football have paid their respects to the former Liverpool and Aston Villa boss who passed away at the age of 73.

And when Cooper spoke with Derby County on the Wednesday before the Swansea City Championship clash, Cooper revealed details of the time he’d spent with Houllier while he was Lyon boss.

« Very sad. I actually ran into him and he was very good to me when I got my pro license, « said the Swans head coach.

« I spent a week in Lyon when he was a manager. It was an excellent visit.

« The key to their visits is to have as much access as possible. He was great with me and a couple of colleagues who also went out.

« We were in his office all day. We’ve seen every aspect of training and prep. He arranged meetings with all the key people there, he was just brilliant with us. He took us out for dinner a couple of times and I think he paid for our hotel if I remember correctly.

« He was a lovely man and obviously brilliant at the technical and coaching side of the game.

« At the time I was concentrating on the Academy in Lyon. It is sad. I’ve seen the tributes former players and peers have paid him, and I think that tells you everything about him.

Cooper also announced that Swansea had no new injury concerns in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Cardiff City.

Morgan Gibbs-White and George Byers continue to recover from long-term injuries, although Tivonge Rushesha will remain on the sidelines for an extended period of time in training after an ACL injury.

The 18-year-old, who made his senior debut under Cooper in the Carabao Cup last season, will see a specialist to determine the full extent of the injury.

« Nothing from the weekend. Morgan is making good progress, he’s not far from getting back on the grass with us and then not far from being involved again so this will be a real plus, « said Cooper.

« He’s a young player who we really like and who has been part of our first team training session all season. We are disappointed with that.

« He’s such a good boy and we’re going to make sure we take care of him and I know he will take care of himself. « .

« It’s an ACL. Quite common, unfortunately, but still a serious injury. One that players can recover from and I am sure he will because he has such a good attitude towards everything he does. He’s a really positive guy. I am sure he will be one of those who recover even more.

« This is some really sad news, but other than that we are doing well in terms of the first team squad. « 

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