Steve Cooper to QUIT as Swansea manager amid concerns over club’s future direction after two years at Welsh club

STEVE COOPER quit as Swansea manager after being told he had to make more sweeping cuts to his playing squad.

The Welsh coach’s contract that had one year left was terminated by “mutual consent” after he refused to negotiate an extension with the club.

But Cooper – who guided the Swans to back-to-back play-offs, including the final in May – was frustrated that he had to keep cutting costs.

And with the club telling him more players had to be sold this summer, he decided it was time for a fresh challenge.

Cooper said: “I’m very proud of what we have achieved over the past two seasons, especially getting to the play-off final, but it feels like a good time for all parties to make a change.

“It is a fantastic club, with incredible supporters and I am very grateful to them, to the players and all the staff for making me so welcome here. I wish the team every success for the future.”

Swansea claimed the decision was reached two weeks ago but Cooper agreed to take pre-season training.

And chief executive Julian Winter said: “We feel that this conclusion is in the best interests of the club with a new season just over two weeks away.

“This decision was reached amicably two weeks ago, and I would like to place on record my thanks to Steve for taking pre-season and for his professionalism while this process has been resolved.

“During his two years in charge, Steve has immersed himself in the club and continually improved our league position as well as giving young players a first-team opportunity.

“It has been well documented that since the club dropped out of the Premier League, the financial position was one that meant the club had to be far more sustainable and we are pleased that so many young players have come here and been afforded that opportunity by Steve and his coaching staff.

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“Just like the playing squad, when a manager has 12 months left on a contract, there has to be a coherent plan that allows the club to continue to build both on and off the pitch, and that involves dialogue around contracts.

“We felt as a club that the situation needed clarity and with a new season edging closer, the mutual nature of this decision allows both parties a chance to look forward.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish Steve the best of luck for the future and thank him for the work he has done during his two years with the football club.”

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