Troy Deeney has shared his thoughts on Steve Cooper’s position at Leicester City, suggesting that the manager’s job was on the line before the Foxes staged a dramatic comeback to beat Southampton.
Leicester entered the game with mixed expectations, and coming from two goals down to secure victory has given fans hope that Cooper is beginning to instill a fighting spirit in the squad.
Despite a rocky start to the season, the win has sparked optimism that Leicester might finally be finding their feet in the Premier League.
Deeney: Cooper’s Job Was at Risk:
Speaking about the impact of the result, Deeney did not mince words.
“I genuinely believe that had Leicester lost at Southampton their manager would have been sacked,” the former Watford striker claimed.
Many viewed the match as a must-win for Cooper, given Leicester’s inconsistent performances since his appointment.
Key Tactical Changes Made the Difference:
Deeney also praised Cooper for his tactical acumen, particularly in making crucial changes at half-time.
“Cooper made changes at half-time, like he did at Arsenal and in a few other games, and his team brought themselves back into it,” Deeney explained.
“It was a massive performance from his side in the second half to come from 2-0 down to win; a monstrous task that they took on with broad shoulders. Simply excellent.”
The former striker went on to name Cooper as his “manager of the week” following the hard-fought victory, recognizing how the manager’s substitutions helped turn the tide.
A Crucial Six Points for Leicester:
The last two matches have been significant for Cooper, with back-to-back wins against Bournemouth and Southampton. These six points have lifted Leicester to 14th place in the table, providing a much-needed boost after a sluggish start to the season.
Looking ahead, Leicester will face Nottingham Forest in a highly anticipated local derby. The fixture is one that Leicester fans always circle on their calendars, and Cooper will be eager to secure a win over his former club. A victory could further strengthen his position and cement his place in the hearts of Leicester supporters.
If Leicester can continue their positive run of form, the doubts that surrounded Cooper’s early tenure may quickly fade. A win against Forest would not only keep the momentum going but also ensure Cooper stays firmly in the good graces of the fanbase.