Michael Cooper: Plymouth Argyle goalkeeper expected to stay at Home Park

Plymouth Argyle boss Wayne Rooney says he expects goalkeeper Michael Cooper to stay at the club despite speculation over his future.

Cooper has missed a large chunk of the last two seasons with injuries but has been first choice when fit.

The highly-rated 24-year-old has a year left to run on his contract and has been linked with a move away from Home Park this season so Argyle do not risk losing him for free next summer.

“He’s come in and he’s loving the work we’re doing,” Rooney said after his side’s pre-season win over Cheltenham Town.

“The goalkeeper’s really important to how I want to play and himself and Conor [Hazard] have been fantastic in taking information in and starting attacks off for us.

“I believe he’ll be here, he’s an Argyle player and I’ve seen no problems.

“I’ve had conversations with him about how we want to play, nothing about him playing elsewhere and so I have no concerns that he won’t be here.”