Colin Cooper set for Middlesbrough after Bradford exit

Cooper made more than 300 league appearances for Middlesbrough in two spells

Colin Cooper is in talks to complete a return to Middlesbrough as Under-18 coach, after he left League Two side Bradford City on Thursday.

The 44-year-old, who had a brief spell as City caretaker manager last month, had indicated he was happy to stay under new boss Phil Parkinson.

He told the Bradford City website: "I'd like to thank all the fans for their support throughout my time here.

"I'd also like to wish Phil and the lads all the very best for the future."

Cooper, who had two spells at Boro during his playing career and was a coach at the club until May 2010, is set to be reunited with a former team-mate in Teessiders boss Tony Mowbray.

"It'll be great to have a face we all know and a man who has the club close to his heart," Mowbray told BBC Tees.

"I think it's important to have a feel for the club and for the supporters' expectations, the demands placed on players.

"The main criteria is can you do the job, you've got to have the ability to - particularly with young players - teach them, educate them and set standards both on and off the field.

"It'll be good for our football club both as a man and as a coach."

Bantams boss Parkinson said that the news of his departure came as a shock.

"It has all happened pretty quickly this week to be honest.

"He has been made an offer, and it is one that he believes is too good to turn down. We would obviously have liked him to stay, but we have to respect his decision.

"I have to stay that Colin has been excellent with me since I've arrived at the club and I wish him all the best."

Meanwhile, Parkinson has moved to extend the loan of right-back Liam Moore until 31 December.

The 18-year-old has been an ever-present member of the side since joining from Leicester City at the start of the season.

"We feel Liam has done really well for the club since coming here," Parkinson said.

"He seems to be improving all the time and hopefully he can develop even further during his time with us."