JAKE Cooper has signed a new long-term contract at Millwall and penned a sincere open letter to fans as he announced his reasons why.
The defender has been at The Den since 2017 and has racked up 304 appearances for the Lions.
Millwall opened up contract talks months ago and have finally nailed the 28-year-old down to new terms.
His contract was set to expire at the end of this season and unconfirmed reports this summer had linked him with moves away.
Cooper expressed his affection for Millwall in a heartfelt open letter as he reflected on the events of the last few months, including the tragic passing of John Berylson.
He said: “As many of you will know, this season is the last year of my current contract with Millwall. I am a very ambitious person and player and have been flattered by the interest in me by other so-called big clubs.
“I have always prided myself in being open and honest and it is with that in mind that this take this opportunity to provide clarity around my situation.
“As a club we are still feeling the impact of the tragic news of John’s sudden passing in the summer. His support of everyone and everything at Millwall was a large part of what made the club unique compared to others. It is such great news for the club and the fans that James has stepped up to be chairman and we all know just much the Berylson family love Millwall.
“So do I. I am very proud and happy to announce that I am committing my long-term future to Millwall, a club which is so special and has such a big place in my heart.
“Many say this is a tough club to play for, but I love it. I relish those days down at The Den when the fans come alive.”
Cooper added: “I am desperate to achieve more in football and as always I will continue to do everything I can to help push us forward. I want to contribute to the collective effort to make John proud and fufil his legacy. We are not the richest or the most glamorous club, but when we are united there is something so special about being a Lion.”
Cooper has long been one of Millwall’s most important players and appeared in all 46 of Millwall’s league games last season, starting 45 of them.
He also wears the captain armband when centre-back partner Shaun Hutchinson is absent.
Underlining his importance to the club, Cooper has started all of Millwall’s last 44 league games and has appeared in all of the Lions’ last 74 Championship matches in some capacity.
He last did not make an appearance for the club in a league game in November 2021 when he was left on the bench for a trip to Hull City.
Cooper has also scored 22 goals during his six years at the club.