Steve Cooper ‘to be a leading candidate’ for Wales job | OneFootball

Steve Cooper has emerged as a possible successor to Craig Bellamy as Wales head coach, with the Football Association of Wales drawing up contingency plans amid uncertainty over Bellamy’s future.

According to the BBC, FAW chiefs held informal talks with Cooper before Burnley’s renewed push for Bellamy, and he is regarded as a leading candidate.

Burnley want Bellamy as they seek a replacement for Scott Parker, who has departed. For now Bellamy remains in post, but the FAW have lined up alternatives, with Rob Edwards and former Wales assistant Eric Ramsay among those admired.

The Welshman is out of work after leaving Brondby last month. He spent eight months in charge, was dismissed the day after their final match of the season, and led them to fourth place.

Wales missed out on World Cup qualification after a play-off semi-final loss at home to Bosnia-Herzegovina. The tie ended 1-1, then the hosts were beaten 4-2 on penalties.

Cooper took charge at Leicester in June 2024 but lasted five months, departing in November after a poor run. He returned to management with Brondby, being appointed last September.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk