Leicester City transfer target has already shown his feelings about Steve Cooper to upset Leeds United

Six months on, Steve Cooper is back in charge – and back in the East Midlands.

The former Swansea City boss has been appointed as Enzo Maresca’s successor at Leicester City, who returned to the Premier League at the first time of asking after winning the Championship title last season.

After his excellent work with City’s bitter rivals Nottingham Forest, who caused a stir by sacking the Welshman in December, the Foxes will be hoping Cooper can help them cement their place in the next tier as they look to re-establish themselves . themselves at the top table of English football.

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There will be plenty in Cooper’s tray, particularly in terms of recruitment, and the 44-year-old may already have his own thoughts on what it might take for this team to compete in the Premier League next season.

Interestingly, they have already been linked with a move for one of Cooper’s old favorites this summer.

Joe Rodon looks set to leave Tottenham before the window closes and despite interest from Leeds United, where he spent a superb loan spell last season, Cooper’s arrival could strengthen the case for a move to the King Power.

Cooper has hidden his admiration for the centre-back in the past after helping him blossom through the Swansea ranks.

Unsurprisingly, the feeling seems to be mutual. Even in the early days of Cooper’s reign, there were signs of a positive relationship.

“Since he’s come in, he’s been with us right away,” Rodon said shortly after Cooper’s appointment.

“He’s got a great background with the youngsters as well. He’s just come in and he’s been brilliant with us from the start. It’s only going to get harder for him and for us, but the most important thing is that we stick together and get through it.

“I’m grateful for what the gaffer has done for me and for believing in me. We’re keeping a clean sheet and it’s been a great start so I hope it continues.

“I feel like every game is a challenge and you learn so much from it. It will only make me better as a player and as a person.”

If an opportunity arises, one suspects a reunion may be an outcome that suits both men.