Source: SKY_Sports
Wheater welcomes Cooper
Middlesbrough defender David Wheater has welcomed the appointment of Colin Cooper as caretaker manager.
Cooper will select the side for Saturday's tough trip to promotion rivals Preston following Gareth Southgate's departure in midweek.
The former Boro defender will be assisted by Steve Agnew and Stephen Pears as chairman Steve Gibson continues his search for a permanent replacement.
And Wheater believes the Championship side will be in safe hands as they look to continue their quest for an immediate return to the Premier League.
Wheater told Sky Sports News: "They know all the lads and they know the area.
"We respect them. They are great coaches and I don't think there is anyone better to take over right now.
"Saturday's the important thing for us now. Hopefully we can get a win there and go on a decent run."
Wheater admitted he was sorry to see Southgate depart, with the former England defender having given the young centre-back his break in the team.
He added: "I can't speak highly enough of him. I've always said that he made my career.
"Steve McClaren gave me my debut, but Gareth Southgate stuck with me in the team when all the injured players were coming back in.
"We've said our goodbyes to the manager and we all wish him well."
