Leeds United captain Liam Cooper was given a shock start for Scotland against Czech Republic in the nation’s opening Euro 2020 match.
Kieran Tierney was widely expected to play at left-centre-back in Steve Clarke’s 3-5-2 system but the Leeds United captain filled in as Tierney was injured. Two excellent goals from Czech striker Patrick Schick – the second of which was from 45 yards out – sealed a 2-0 defeat for Scotland ahead of two remaining group games with England and Croatia.
Cooper has made a handful of appearances for his country, his first start at a major tournament coming off the back of a successful season at Leeds United. His selection in the Scotland XI means Cooper will be remembered for starting in Scotland’s maiden game at a major tournament since 1998.
But it didn’t end the way he or the nation would have wanted it to as an uphill task to get out of Group D looks likely. Fans have provided their assessment of Cooper’s display.
https://twitter.com/scuddzalt/status/1404439689122271234
https://twitter.com/LUFCDATA/status/1404454107486867457
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