Brackley Town complete first summer signing as Birmingham City academy product puts pen to paper
Brackley Town have announced midfielder Charlie Cooper as their first signing of the summer, kicking off a major rebuild under manager Andy Whing.
Saints supporters have been patiently waiting for transfer news after it became apparent that the majority of last season’s squad would be departing.
Now, after weeks of work behind the scenes, Cooper has been confirmed as the first new addition and more are expected to follow in the not-too-distant future.
Cooper joins Brackley following his release from Yeovil Town and a season on loan at Kidderminster Harriers, where he achieved promotion to the National League.
The 29-year-old Birmingham City academy graduate played 26 times for Kidderminster last term, scoring six goals. Cooper also netted a goal in the 2-0 play-off final triumph over South Shields.
Much of Cooper’s career has been spent in the National League, with 212 appearances racked up in the English fifth tier.
But it hasn’t just been non-league football he has been involved in, with 34 games played in League Two during spells at Forest Green Rovers and Newport County.
So, what can Brackley fans expect from their latest signing?
“I’m a midfielder, all-action, so I’ll give everything I’ve got and hopefully the fans buy into that and will see what I can give,” Cooper told @BrackleyTownFC.
“I’m at a good age with good experience and I’m excited to get started.”
On why he turned down other offers in favour of the Saints, Cooper added: “On the back of last year, obviously doing well in this league that Brackley are going in, I had success through the play-offs.
“I spoke to a few clubs and Brackley stood out location-wise and after speaking to Whingy, the gaffer, it was just a perfect fit for me with where I’m at now.
“I just want to win games and have more success. That’s what I’m here to do.
“I like to dictate play, I’ll try and get on the ball a lot, tackle, try and add a few goals. I scored a decent amount on loan at Kidderminster last year.
“I’ll get things ticking and get the creative lads on the ball, let them express themselves.”
This is just the start, with Brackley eager to sign at least a dozen new players this summer.