By Paul Jones
Steve Cooper has claimed he could have done more transfer business at Leicester City if the club’s successful appeal against a Premier League ruling had been announced earlier.
Cooper – the only Welsh manager in the top flight – was drawn into the long-running dispute over an alleged spending rule breach when he took charge earlier this summer.
The promoted club avoided a possible points deduction when their appeal, on the basis that an independent commission ruling on the case did not have jurisdiction, was upheld earlier this month.
“It’s obviously a positive thing,” said former Swansea City boss Cooper.
“It adds a little bit of frustration as things could have been different in the (summer transfer window) if we had found out earlier. I’ll have to get over that but I’m really happy with the squad.”
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Media reports had linked Leicester with several transfer targets that did not materialise, including Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson who went on loan to Fulham and Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley who signed for Brighton & Hove Albion.
Leicester brought in several players during the summer window, including midfielder Oliver Skipp from Tottenham Hotspur and centre back Caleb Okoli from Serie A side Atalanta.
Steve Cooper explains transfer 'frustration' of #LCFC PSR verdicthttps://t.co/egiUrEGSTA
— LCFC Live (@LiveLCFC) September 13, 2024
Cooper, however, welcomed the decision for bringing clarity to the club.
“It is good that the supporters have clarity and so does the game. We were ready as a group of players and staff to stand up and fight for the club if it was a negative decision,” the 44-year-old said.
“We’ve still got to make sure we are still together as a club and we show how strong we are. That all adds to the challenge but it is one we’re ready for.”
Leicester, who have one point after three matches in the league, visit Crystal Palace on Saturday.
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