Rooney expects Cooper to stay at Plymouth Argyle

Michael Cooper has played 161 times for Argyle since his debut as an 18-year-old

Plymouth Argyle boss Wayne Rooney says he expects goalkeeper Michael Cooper to stay at the club despite speculation over his future.

Cooper has missed a large chunk of the last two seasons with injuries but has been first choice when fit.

The highly-rated 24-year-old has a year left to run on his contract and has been linked with a move away from Home Park this season so Argyle do not risk losing him for free next summer.

"He's come in and he's loving the work we're doing," Rooney said after his side's pre-season win over Cheltenham Town.

"The goalkeeper's really important to how I want to play and himself and Conor [Hazard] have been fantastic in taking information in and starting attacks off for us.

"I believe he'll be here, he's an Argyle player and I've seen no problems.

"I've had conversations with him about how we want to play, nothing about him playing elsewhere and so I have no concerns that he won't be here."

Rooney also brushed off reports that last season's top scorer Morgan Whittaker could leave the club, reiterating that only a huge bid would see Argyle part with another of their prized assets.

He has brought in four players so far this summer and is still hopeful of strengthening his squad before they open their campaign at Sheffield Wednesday on 11 August.

"We've identified players we still want to bring in and there's things which are ongoing," he said.

"But until there's anything concrete I don't think it's fair on the player or the clubs we're speaking to to put that out there, but there will be more players coming in."