Steve Cooper remains under intense scrutiny at Leicester City, despite a last-minute equaliser at Ipswich Town on Saturday, sources have revealed to Football Insider.
The Foxes managed to salvage a point in dramatic fashion when summer signing Jordan Ayew scored in the 94th minute.
It was a lifeline for Cooper’s side, who were trailing to a goal by Ipswich’s Leif Davies and were up against a ten-man Ipswich squad led by Kieran McKenna.
Cooper, however, continues to face mounting criticism at the King Power Stadium, with many Leicester supporters growing increasingly dissatisfied.
A recent 3-1 defeat to his former club, Nottingham Forest, saw fans turn on him, leaving him jeered by the home crowd. That reaction came just nine days before the Ipswich draw, adding to the manager’s woes.
Inside sources suggest that Cooper’s position might have been at greater risk had Leicester not managed to secure the last-gasp equaliser.
The Ayew goal has effectively bought him some time, with his job now likely safe until at least the November international break.
Nevertheless, his future remains precarious, and a significant improvement in results is deemed necessary to avoid further speculation about his position.
As Football Insider previously reported on 24 September, Cooper has faced challenges beyond just results.
It is believed he has struggled to gain full support from the Leicester dressing room, with several players reportedly unconvinced by his management style and tactical approach.
Leicester’s draw with Ipswich has done little to ease the pressure. Currently sitting 15th in the Premier League after ten games, Cooper’s side has collected ten points, with two wins, four draws, and four defeats to their name.
The failure to beat one of the league’s struggling teams, Ipswich, has only intensified scrutiny on Cooper, especially as rival clubs around them pick up points.
Adding to the Foxes’ frustrations, Southampton recently claimed their first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Everton, a result that could inject fresh momentum into their campaign.
Meanwhile, Wolves and Crystal Palace played out an exciting 2-2 draw, underscoring the competitive nature of the league’s lower half.
Doubts regarding Cooper’s tenure began to surface even during Leicester’s pre-season training, as whispers of unease emerged within the squad.
Despite being a relatively new arrival at the King Power, Cooper has yet to fully convince his players, with some reportedly questioning his methods.
These ongoing concerns have not gone unnoticed by Leicester’s hierarchy, who are increasingly aware of his struggles to unify the team.
Cooper has seen some relief through victories over Bournemouth and Southampton around the October international break, temporarily steering Leicester clear of immediate danger.
Yet, the team’s recent dip in form has reignited doubts, with pressure mounting as the threat of relegation looms should they continue on their current path.