COOPER'S CLASS ACT IN ARGYLE SHUT-OUT

STEVEN Schumacher hailed the “calming influence” of returning keeper Michael Cooper as Plymouth claimed a first clean sheet in seven games

- Tom Naylor

The 24-year-old made an eye-catching comeback after eight months out with a ruptured cruciate knee ligament, helping the Pilgrims to a shutout at West Brom.

“Since pre-season, he’s worked his socks off and he deserves to play at this level and at a higher level than this,” said former goalkeeper Schumacher.

“I’m buzzing for Michael. He’s been a huge player for us for a couple of seasons and I rate him really highly. He’s one of the best young goalkeepers in the country – he’s sharp, he’s a calming influence and he makes big saves.

“It was a big call to put him in the team, but that’s what I get paid for and he repaid it. I’m delighted for him.”