Leeds United defender Liam Cooper made his long-awaited return to action on Saturday afternoon, with Liverpool’s Andrew Robertson congratulating him.
Cooper suffered an injury just 15 minutes into Leeds’ 2-2 draw with Brentford in December, missing four months of the season.
The Scottish defender made his return against Southampton on Saturday afternoon, starting in the 1-1 draw at Elland Road.
Jack Harrison opened the scoring for Leeds before James Ward-Prowse buried a trademark free kick to salvage a point.
Kalvin Phillips made his return too, with Leeds able to bring back two key leaders for the run-in.
Cooper was outstanding on his return, recording four interceptions, eight clearances and 10 successful aerial duels.
Cooper looks like he hasn’t missed a beat and is now primed to help Leeds in the final weeks of the season as they look to avoid relegation.
This is also a huge boost for Scotland, who are scheduled to take on Ukraine at some stage as they vie for a place at the World Cup.
Given Ukraine’s situation – one far more important than football – it’s unclear just when that game will take place, but Cooper has himself in contention to play.
That will potentially mean Cooper joining forces with Liverpool star Robertson in the Scotland back line.
Cooper took to Twitter to post a heartfelt message, stating that his time out through injury felt like a lifetime but he is finally back doing what he loves.
Robertson, fresh off beating Watford with Liverpool chasing the Premier League title, took the time to reply to his international teammate.
Robertson simply stated ‘love it’, throwing his support behind Cooper as the experienced defender finally returns to the pitch.
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