News of Cooper’s transfer to the Bannsiders was first reported in December and the former Oxford United star arrives at The Showgrounds as the reigning NIFWA Player of the Year and Ulster Footballer of the Year following his role in the Blues’ Premiership title success.
The 29-year-old scored 19 league goals for David Healy’s side last term as they reclaimed the Gibson Cup and booked their Champions League return this summer.
As a proud Oxfordshire resident, I am lending my full support to Oxford United’s plans to build a new stadium at the site known as ‘The Triangle’ near Kidlington.
This is not just about football. This is about ambition, opportunity, and safeguarding the future of our county’s only professional football club.
The proposal currently before Cherwell District Council represents a once in a generation opportunity. A modern, purpose-built stadium would provide Oxford United with a permanent home, create hundreds of jobs, and inject new energy into the local economy. It’s a project that would bring investment, prosperity, and pride to our county.
Cooper originally joined Linfield from Glenavon, where he won the 2015/16 Irish Cup, in 2018 and earned his move across the water to Oxford two years later after impressive Irish League form.
One of the standout strengths of this plan is its location. Positioned right next to Oxford Parkway Station and served by multiple bus routes, the site offers excellent public transport connections.
This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking infrastructure planning we need, making it easier for fans and visitors to travel sustainably and reducing pressure on local roads.
Encouraging more people to leave the car at home not only supports the environment, but helps make matchdays smoother for everyone.
I want to take a moment to give special thanks to the Oxford United fans who have shown extraordinary perseverance throughout this journey.
You’ve contributed thoughtfully to consultation after consultation, engaged constructively with local councils, and have lobbied your councillors with passion and purpose.
It’s your commitment that has helped bring the club’s vision this far. You’ve kept the dream of a permanent home alive, and now that vision is within reach.
The club’s commitment to building a sustainable, community-focused stadium is clear. The plans include facilities for the wider public, dedicated community spaces, and green transport options.
Oxford United have worked hard to consult with residents, environmental groups, and local businesses to ensure this development is a benefit, not a burden to the area.
Councillors at Cherwell District Council now have a crucial decision before them in July. I urge them to look beyond the short-term politics and focus on the long-term benefits this stadium will bring.
