Leeds United captain Liam Cooper was presented with a Special Achievement Award by the club on Thursday night, an honor he shared with teammates Stuart Dallas and Luke Ayling in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the team both on and off the field.

The past year has seen significant changes within the club, including the appointment of two managers, a successful takeover, and a major overhaul of the squad. Amidst these transformations, Liam Cooper remained a constant presence, playing a crucial role in ushering in the new era under Daniel Farke by opting to stay with the Whites despite tempting offers.

While Farke’s strategic shift has seen Cooper take a slightly reduced role on the pitch this season, his invaluable leadership off the field has continued to be praised by the manager. This was reiterated during the recent in-house awards ceremony held at the Centenary Pavilion, where Cooper, Dallas, and Ayling were acknowledged with the Special Achievement Award.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Cooper remains open to the possibility of extending his stay at the club, expressing his dedication and desire to contribute towards its success. However, with uncertainties surrounding the team’s transfer plans and player retention strategy, Cooper’s future at Leeds United remains unclear.

After a remarkable 10-year tenure with the club, during which he played a pivotal role in returning Leeds to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa, the time may be approaching for Cooper to make a transition. While his contributions and loyalty deserve immense recognition, the club’s focus on defensive improvements might lead to a parting of ways as they seek to progress.

As discussions continue regarding Cooper’s future and potential opportunities elsewhere, it’s evident that his talent and leadership would be assets for any team, whether in the Championship or beyond, ensuring his legacy endures regardless of the path he chooses to take.