Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has paid tribute to Neale Cooper after his death.
Reflecting on the Gothenburg Great, McInnes speaks of Cooper’s bright personality and how he will always be cherished with Aberdeen Football Club.
“I’m devastated by the loss of Neale. It’s so desperately unfair on Neale and his family to be taken at such a young age.
“Although I had encountered Neale previously, I got to know him better in recent years and he had this unique ability of making me and other people feel instantly better.
“He lit up a room and was such a likeable guy. He was one of life’s good guys and we will ultimately be a poorer club without him around.
“Neale would often stick his head in to my office on a matchday, always quick with a joke. He often used to say he had his boots with him and was ready to play.
“He was always very supportive of myself and my players and it’s clear he defended AFC fiercely at every turn and on a personal basis I will be eternally grateful to him for that.
The club is deeply shocked and saddened to hear that our legendary midfielder and Gothenburg Great, Neale Cooper has tragically passed away. pic.twitter.com/eufY7zjUsA
— Aberdeen FC (@AberdeenFC) May 28, 2018
“His greatness on the pitch will forever be cherished but his greatness will be always be felt by everyone associated with AFC.
“We’ll all miss him terribly.”
Dons legend Neale Cooper died after being found injured in a flat on Sunday morning, he was 54.
