COOPER HAPPY TO STAY IN CLUB GAME

Swans boss reported to be on England’s wanted list for U21s, but . . .

SWANSEA City boss Steve Cooper is unlikely to be interested in replacing England Under-21s boss Aidy Boothroyd this summer, the Evening Post has learned.

According to the Daily Mail, Cooper is one of several names being considered by the Football Association to replace Boothroyd, whose contract is up this summer, following a dismal European Championship campaign for the young Three Lions.

Cooper, who knows the set-up at England well having guided the under-17s to World Cup success in 2017 before taking the role at the Swans, has already proved he is capable of moulding some of England’s brightest young talents.

As such, the appeal to FA chiefs isn’t difficult to see.

However, it’s understood the Swans boss sees his long-term future in the club game and is unlikely to be interested in a return to international coaching.

Boothroyd’s future with England appears to be hanging by a thread, with his side on course for a group stage exit at this year’s European

Championships after following up a 1-0 defeat in their opening Group D game with a heavy defeat at the hands of Portugal on Sunday night.

Frank Lampard is believed to be the headline name on the list of potential replacements, although again it’s believed that he too may prefer to stay in club management after his departure from Chelsea earlier in the season.

Jody Morris and Joe Edwards have also been named as potential candidates, as too have John Mcdermott and Paul Simpson, the latter of whom oversaw England Under-20s’ World Cup success.

QPR boss Mark Warburton could also be in the frame.

In the meantime, Cooper’s attention will be once again focused on Swansea’s battle for automatic promotion, which continues with a trip to Birmingham City on Friday night.

Cooper’s work so far this season has clearly earned him plenty of plaudits. Indeed, England are seemingly not the only keen admirers of his work, with Premier League side Crystal Palace recently linked as a potential option earlier in the season.

Palace boss Roy Hodgson’s contract is up this summer, and a departure from Selhurst Park looks increasingly likely.

“Not even worth talking about,” Cooper responded when quizzed on any links with the Eagles.

“We’re in this mad schedule and the only thing I’m focused on is the team and the collective, preparing for the next game.

“There are no sideshows and certainly nothing to talk about. The important thing is we stick together and carry on with our work.

“We’re focused on what’s in front of us.”

Kaplan and Levien are committed to club, says part-owner Donovan — see page 46