“Farke has spoken quite a lot about the inexperience, It increases the chances Leeds want him to stick around”- Phil Hay gives latest update on Liam Cooper’s future at Leeds with player in talks to extend 10-year stay at club

Phil Hay has given an update on what he has heard about the chances of Liam Cooper signing a new deal at Leeds United.

Leeds released their retained list on Friday afternoon, with it confirmed Cooper is in talks over extending his 10-year stay at Elland Road.

It had initially been thought Cooper would be on his way out of the club this summer having all but confirmed as such in his pre-match programme notes before the play-off semi-final against Norwich City.

With the score at 4-0, Cooper was even brought on for the final 10 minutes for his first appearance since the end of March, which had all the marks of a farewell appearance.

Cooper received an excellent reception from Leeds supporters and it certainly felt as though he was given the final chance by Daniel Farke to say goodbye to Elland Road.

Among the most interesting parts of Leeds’ retained list was the one-year extension of Sam Byram, with Ethan Ampadu and Connor Roberts among those to react to the news.

Cody Drameh was also offered a new deal, though the reason that was done is to ensure Leeds receive compensation upon his exit due to his age. He is still expected to leave.

Perhaps surprisingly alongside Cooper, Jamie Shackleton is also in talks despite the fact he played just a handful of league minutes after the 4-1 win over Huddersfield Town in October.

However, Cooper is certainly the headline news of the list and speaking on the latest episode of the Square Ball Podcast, Hay has shared what he was told about Cooper’s future earlier this week.

He said: “The interesting one is Liam Cooper. I spoke to a couple of people this morning who said it still seemed to be up in the air. The expectation has been that he would go and I think from his perspective he just hasn’t played anywhere near enough at his time of life and career.

“There is definitely other interest in him as well and had they gone up, I would’ve found it very difficult to see where he was going to fit. Being in the Championship and with the squad being pretty young, Farke has spoken quite a lot about the inexperience, I suppose it increases the chances Leeds want him to stick around.”

What has Cooper said about his Leeds future?

Cooper will certainly find himself in a difficult position as to whether to stay or go. On one hand, Leeds is boyhood club, but on the other, game time has been lacking.

However, speaking back at Leeds’ official awards ceremony in April, he certainly seemed to hint that he would be happy to stick around if he gets the chance.

He said: “I’ve tried everyday to lead by example, be a good example around the place and give everything I have to possibly make this club better. It’s one I’ve done with great honour, I’ve enjoyed every second and hopefully that can continue for a few more years but we’ll see.”