Sources: Steve Cooper interviews with London club as rift sees shock Nottingham Forest exit take shape

Steve Cooper is unhappy with the Nottingham Forest ownership and has interviewed twice for the soon-to-be vacant job at Crystal Palace, TEAMtalk understands.

Cooper, 43, has worked wonders in his two seasons at the City Ground. The Welshman helped Nottingham Forest achieve promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs last term.

Forest’s sole goal upon returning to the top flight for the first time this century was avoiding relegation. For much of the campaign it appeared that objective would not be achieved.

However, Forest’s superb 1-0 victory over Arsenal secured their Premier League status on Sunday. The club can now enjoy their final outing of the year against Crystal Palace next week without the threat of relegation hanging over their heads.

However, TEAMtalk has exclusively learned that next week’s opponent – Crystal Palace – may in fact poach Cooper at season’s end.

Roy Hodgson is in charge of the Eagles until the end of the season. There has been speculation he could be rewarded with a new one-year contract for guiding them to safety. However, we’ve been told the interview process to appoint a brand new candidate is already in full swing.

What’s more, we’ve learned Forest boss Cooper has already interviewed for the soon-to-be vacant Palace job not once but twice.

Losing Cooper would be a bitter pill to swallow for Forest, especially after sticking by their man during a season in which his position came under serious pressure at varying stages.

However, we understand Cooper is unhappy with the Forest ownership and as such, will consider jumping ship to Selhurst Park if offered the opportunity.

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