Incoming Rangers signing Ben Godfrey is a leader on and off the pitch, according to his manager last season, former Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper. The twice-capped England international is set to join the Ibrox club on loan from Atalanta and become new manager Derek McInnes' first signing at Rangers.
Godfrey's Impact at Brondby
Godfrey spent the second half of last season in Denmark with Brondby, who were managed by ex-Leicester City and Swansea City boss Cooper. Cooper was axed by Brondby after a disappointing fourth placed finish, but he was hugely impressed with 28-year-old Godfrey's time at the club.
Cooper said: "Ben has been brilliant for us both on and especially off the pitch. He has become a leader in the dressing room and he has become very popular. He has come with a fantastic attitude with a lot of humility."
Filling the Leadership Void
Rangers have lost captain James Tavernier and a criticism in recent seasons has been the lack of leaders in the dressing room - but Godfrey could well fill that void. Cooper added: "I know he has loved his time here and he has gone through what you have seen a million times when people come to Brondby - that they end up enjoying and loving being here."
Positive Influence on Young Players
Cooper highlighted Godfrey's influence beyond match days: "You can see it in his actions on the pitch and showing how much it means to him. He has been a big influence in the dressing room and helps the young players in training. He has had a really positive effect here."
Cooper concluded: "We are really happy with Ben, his approach, the leadership he has shown in the dressing room and the handling of different situations. I have enjoyed having him as my player."
