FORMER Bangor City player Steve Cooper is set to become the new manager at Swansea City.

The Sky Bet Championship side are set to confirm the news in the coming days, with the England U17 boss emerging as the primary candidate for the role this week.

Cooper came through the Wrexham Academy system and played for the Citizens’ over a two-year period from 2000-02, where he made 57 appearances and scored three goals.

He was part of the City side that took on Sartid Smederevo in the UEFA Cup during his final year at the club, and he also represented all-conquering JD Welsh Premier League champions The New Saints and Rhyl during his career on the domestic scene.

Prior to his move to the England set-up, Cooper was manager of Liverpool’s thriving Academy system and played a leading role in bringing through high-profile individuals such as current Manchester City star Raheem Sterling and Champions League winner Trent Alexander-Arnold.

He initially became England U16 manager before progressing to the U17 fold, and his fine efforts in progressing young players to the next stage of the international ranks has seen Cooper earn a reputation as one of the best young coaches in the country.

His crowning jewel was winning the U17 World Cup in 2017 with England, and Cooper secured his UEFA Pro Licence at the age of 27.

The Swans are hoping that Cooper, together with expected assistant Mike Marsh, can utilise their contacts within the loan market to further boost the club’s chances to a return to the Premier League at the second time of asking.