As widely anticipated, the announcement of Steve Cooper as the new Head Coach (not Manager) of Nottingham Forest has been made this morning. The former Swansea City boss now 41 will be showcased to the media this afternoon but first is getting to grips with his new team members and staff at the Nigel Doughty Academy as he takes immediate charge on the training field, with the view very much of Millwall in sight and three points at the City Ground this weekend.

The World Cup winning Coach lead England U17’s to victory in the FIFA hosted 2017 tournament in India and has worked with some of the best youngsters in the country including Phil Foden, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Emile Smith-Rowe and the Reds very own Alex Mighten whilst on National duty.

At Swansea, Cooper reached the playoffs twice, playing a style of football that the Nottingham Forest fans would very much adhere to enjoy at the City Ground themselves, and following the departure of Chris Hughton last week, lead a number of well-recognised figures including Chris Wilder, Eddie Howe and John Terry as next Reds Manager, a first-choice for the clubs Greek owners who’s capture has gone down very well with supporters.

Cooper is a Welshman born in Pontypridd, who played in the Welsh leagues after an early career spell at Wrexham. Son of former top-flight referee Keith, he has football pedigree in his DNA and obtained his UEFA pro license at the age of 27 whilst working with Wrexham Academy.

His England success lead to Swansea City taking a punt and in two years his 105 games in charge included 47 wins and has in the past stated on his playing style “We want to play with purpose, dominate possession, play forward, and get the ball back as quick as we can.”

Music to Nottingham Forest fans ears perhaps?

Let us wait and see how this one pans out in a latest chapter of promising bosses at the City Ground.

*Main image @NFFC Steve Cooper checking his notes on day one.