Keith Cooper dead at 78: Former Premier League referee and dad of ex-Forest boss Steve dies as tributes pour in

Former Premier League referee Keith Cooper, the father of former Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper, has passed away at the age of 78. The Football Association of Wales announced his death, paying tribute to his exceptional career across domestic and international football after spending 14 years refereeing in the Football League and the Premier League.

Cooper officiated in the top flight from 1993 until his retirement in 1996, and famously took charge of the 1994 League Cup final between Aston Villa and Manchester United. Following his retirement, the Pontypridd-born official served as the FAW Referees’ Officer, worked with the Wiltshire FA, contributed to radio punditry, and supported special needs children across Torfaen and Caerphilly.