SWANSEA City have officially appointed former Bangor City and Rhyl player Steve Cooper as their new boss.

The Sky Bet Championship side confirmed the news on Thursday, with Cooper now tasked with getting the club back into the Barclays Premier League at the second time of asking and takes over from recently departed boss Graham Potter.

He said: "I'm really excited about the challenge ahead.

"This opportunity is something I've been working towards my whole life, certainly since I started coaching 22 years ago.

"I have already done a huge amount of homework on the playing style, the squad and plans for pre-season. Now I just can't wait to get started.''

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.

FA technical director Les Reed, added: "I would like to place on record our thanks to Steve and Mike for their outstanding work and achievements here at The FA.

"One of our key objectives is the England senior team being ready to win the World Cup in 2022.

"Steve played a pivotal part in developing players and our teams as we work towards that goal."