Cooper Willie Image 2 Aberdeen 1935

Description

Aberdeen born right back Willie Cooper was a fantastic servant of the Pittodrie club. He joined from junior club Muglemoss in 1927 and made his Scottish League debut aged 18 against Cowdenbeath in April 1928. His defining moment in a long Aberdeen career came in 1947 when a rare injury prevented him from playing in The Dons’ first Scottish Cup success. Such was his popularity that special permission was given by the SFA for Cooper to be presented with a medal. He represented The Scottish League twice, both times against The Football League, in October 1934 and October 1935, losing the first game 2-1 at Stamford Bridge, and drawing the latter 2-2 at Ibrox.

It was said of him at the time “In Aberdeen’s team of stars there is not a better or more consistent performer than right back Willie Cooper. He makes a fine and steady partner for the more venturesome McGill, and his strong tackling and kicking are always features of his play.” He played many matches for The Dons during the Second World War years, and when re-signed by the club in July 1941 the local press stated that he was engaged “in work of national importance”. He scored 3 goals in 393 appearances in total, of which 158 were unofficial wartime fixtures before retiring in 1948.