Cooper full of pride for young Lion V
NOTTM FOREST ●
TODAY, KICK-OFF 5.10PM
STEVE COOPER says Emile Smith Rowe’s rise to the top is proof that hard work pays off.
Nottingham Forest’s boss coached the Gunners youngster when he was in charge of England’s Under-17s and insists he was a stand out.
And not just because of his talent.
Cooper (below) said: “Emile was one of a group of highlytalented boys. When you work with an England team of that age, you don’t get that far if you aren’t.
“They were at an age where you hoped they would go on and do things. To get as far as he has is a real testament to the work he has done in his academy.
“And Emile is now one of those who is starting to have a really exciting career.
“But we all know that talent is not the only part of getting to the top, which is the Premier League. To stay there you need a lot of other things as well.
“It’s pleased me because I cannot think of a player in that England team who worked harder than him in terms of his training and his preparation.
“I’m not saying others didn’t work hard, but he had an amazing approach.”
Cooper has transformed Forest’s fortunes since taking over from Chris Hughton in September.
One of his own stand-out performers has been Brennan Johnson, 20, who is attracting plenty of attention during his breakthrough season.
Johnson has already been called into the senior Wales squad and Cooper issued him with a challenge – from today.
He said: “Brennan’s doing really well, there’s no doubt.
“Sometimes you have to be really careful and not say too much, but I don’t worry about him because I just see a hungry player who wants to improve.
“He’s had a big impact, but we are only halfway through the season and he knows there are areas we want him to get better at.
“For instance, I’ve had a good conversation with him today about some technical improvements and he’s taken that on board.
“He’s established as a firstteam player but if he wants to be a high performer I’m sure he’ll want to look back and know he’s had a good season – and not just a good halfseason. That’s the challenge.”
Cooper added: “Every player should be thinking that Arsenal is a good yardstick. They are a tougher challenge than the one we face week in, week out.
“I want an ambitious culture for every player to think that they can impose themselves on the game. I want them on that page. If they’re not, they’re not going to be for me.”