Cooper curses his luck as there’s no international rescue.. MARK Cooper doesn’t think that it’s fair that two of his midfield maestros could be missing for next week’s crunch clash with Bristol City. Swindon are set to welcome their local rivals, who are also sitting pretty at the top of the League One table, unable to call on services of Massimo Luongo after he was called in to the Australia squad for their friendly with Japan on November 18. Cooper also expects fellow midfield star Yaser Kasim to make Iraq’s squad for this month’s Gulf Cup of Nations, ruling him out of the City clash. In September, Swindon were able to postpone their trip to Chesterfield due to three international call-ups, but it is likely that Town will be unable to go down that route this time around as they prepare for a crucial derby. “We can’t call the game off. I could have probably begged Chris Coleman (Wales manager) to include Louis Thompson and get the game called off but we can’t,” said Cooper “I think the Football League keep going on about how it has to be a fair and open competition. “Now this isn’t a moan because you know me, I’m going to get on with it, but we’re playing the best team in our league with two of our best players missing – so is it a fair and open competition? “I’m sure Steve (Cotterill, City manager) is rubbing his hands together, after watching us the other night, that Mass and Yas aren’t playing. It’s a little bit unfair but that’s the way it is. “I just hope it doesn’t affect the spectacle of the game. It should be a game of two real good football teams going at it. “We may have to change because we’re missing two of our best players.” http://www.thisisswindontownfc.co.uk/news/headlines/11586057._/ 5 excuses already, is he trying to say something..?
Change? From the petty fouls, time wasting, bullying the referee, like they did last season at Ashton Gate. I don't think so because a leopard never changes it's spots!
I agree that he has a point also. Losing players because of injuries/suspensions are all part of a game but potentially losing your better players because they are playing for someone else isn't right imo.
Me too. Basically his job is the same as any football manager - to get his side to win games. He is facing the league leaders without 2 first team players. I would be pissed off in his shoes - but it's not a new rule - he knows.
This is what his own fans think? i agree with them! "Much as I like you coops, this is a moan on your part. The rules are the same for everyone, you can't have the benefit of having international quality players, knowing you may lose them, and then complaining when the rules work against you. If the shoe was on the other foot and City were in our boat, would we give a toss? Absolutely not. It's unfortunate for us but it's the rules. If you say I'm not having a moan but..." then you're having a moan. Make do - no more to be said."
Please tell me Kilkenny ain't one of those What do you lot think of him there? I've got to be honest to me he's possibly the worse team player I've ever seen always moaning and pointing
Fair play to Swindon fans, not many teams fans (certainly not the Non League Bristol outfit) would be that gracious.