Liam Cooper gave his thoughts after playing an instrumental role in defeating Crystal Palace at Elland Road. 

The skipper organised the defensive line throughout and made a huge contribution to the clean sheet for his side, allowing the attackers to do the damage at the opposite end. 

“We talked about getting a home win and a clean sheet, and we managed to do that,” Cooper explained after the match. 

“I thought the lads were really good, we limited a very good Crystal Palace team to not having many chances and took our chances at the other end.

“I am proud of the boys, we look to improve every single day. As a club and as a team, we pride ourselves on working hard and limiting the opposition chances. 

“We’ve done that against a very good side and hopefully we can continue to do that. I said last week we want to finish as high as we can.

“We’re under no illusions about how difficult it is in this league and every game is a different challenge. 

“I know it is a cliche but all we can do is concentrate on the next game, what will be will be at the end of the season. 

“Our target at the start of the season was to stay in the league and hopefully we can do that.”

The captain was quick to praise Patrick Bamford, after the striker scored his 12th of the season and in doing so he reached 100 career league goals. 

Cooper said: “He’s flying and we see it every day in training.

“He works so hard for the team out of possession as well, he gives us a focal point to play off, he holds the ball up well and when he gets a chance he puts it away. 

“We’re delighted for him. 

“He’s got there through hard work and hopefully he will continue to do what he’s doing because he’s been unbelievable for us.”