Millwall defender Jake Cooper has spoken for the first time since signing a new long-term deal to put to bed and rumours of a January departure.

The 23-year-old was a summer target for Glasgow Rangers, with manager Steven Gerrard keen on the former Reading man.

Several bids were rebuffed, and Cooper continued his stint in south London, but with the new year approaching, reports of renewed interest from the Scottish giants resurfaced.

Gerrard was set to re-enter the race to sign the impressive Millwall man, but all that was cast into the distance when the Lions confirmed Cooper had signed a new and improved contract.

In an interview with NewsAtDen, Cooper discussed the repeated interest from Rangers for his services and admitted he had no intention of leaving the club.

“It was never going to be an issue,” Cooper expressed. “After the transfer window in the summer that was done. That didn’t really faze me.

“It’s down to other clubs who they want to sign. I’m a Millwall player, and I want to help the club improve.

“It did take some time to organise things, and it was nice to get it over the line and come to an agreement with the club. Now it’s just about playing for Millwall and making a better future here at the club.

“I just focussed on how I was playing and how the team was playing and let negotiations take care of themselves. I tried to influence my performances in that sense, and thankfully it was agreed.”

Fresh from his new deal, Cooper scored in the 3-2 defeat to Preston and will be hoping his side can get back to winning ways when they head to the bet365 Stadium on Saturday to take on Stoke City.

The Verdict

This is certain to please Millwall fans – a player linked with a big move away and is adamant he wasn’t going anywhere.

Very experienced head on young shoulders, Jake Cooper, is at the club for the long-term.

Cynics will say it’s only for a bigger payday in the summer, but you get the feeling that he does want to stick around.

With all the interest in him, it didn’t affect his performances or his morale like it might have done other players – he was playing at the top of his game, and this new contract should alleviate any worry or doubt and allow the 23-year-old to continue his fine form for his club.

Thoughts? Let us know!