Dudley are unbeaten in 10 matches and they currently have a 10 point lead at the top over AFC Ludlow.
However, the gaffer insists that the championship is still up for grabs ahead of the visit of Dudley to the Showtime Stadium on Saturday.
Cooper said: “Team Dudley will arrive at the Showtime Stadium as league leaders, and deservedly so judging by their results. But my boys perform well against the big sides and we certainly won’t fear them.
“With a full squad we are a match for anyone in this division, but our home form and a lack of commitment from my men has cost us this year.”
AFC Ludlow will be boosted by the return of four first-team players.
The boss insists his players will play without restraint against Dudley.
Cooper said: “We will approach the game in a positive attacking manner, because of the players I have available; which includes our new-star man Nathan Hodge. Nathan’s arrival means we will have a goal threat, which we have lacked in our last few matches.
“Rob Boyd, Nathan, Rob Vass and Luke Hicks are all available against Team Dudley after missing our last game against Penkridge Town. But we are without Martin and Marian Jusko and Vladimir Biscak due to suspensions and work commitments unfortnately.”
But Cooper believes the club’s young-guns Kieran Dovey, Liam Taylor and his son Keanu can fire the club to championship glory next year.
He revealed that in his opinion AFC Ludlow should be playing West Midlands Premier League football within the next five years.
Cooper said: “Our motto at the club is if you’re good enough then age doesn’t matter. None of the younger players have let me down this year in any game they’ve played. This bodes well for our future as AFC Ludlow’s oldest outfield player is only 30; so the young players are very important to the future of AFC Ludlow.
“I believe in five years time AFC Ludlow should be playing West Midlands Premier League football. The club is a great place to be – we are friendly, we have great facilities and a good family atmosphere. What more can anyone ask for?
“If we can be more consistent and perform at home, we won’t be far off the top in the league next year. We just need to add a couple of players, and get that commitment from the lads next season.”
But Cooper has not given up on winning promotion just yet.
He said: “With the way results have gone in this division: Promotion is still up for grabs, it looks a distant prospect, but I will expect the lads to fight right up until the very last minute of our last game this season.”
The manager confirmed that he is still enjoying his role at the club.
He said: “I am happy. There have been a few ups and downs. But to see so many young lads playing for their home town, that makes me proud. It sets up a great future for AFC Ludlow.”
Saturday’s match is a 2pm kick-off. Admission is £3 for adults and £1 for children.
For more AFC Ludlow news and comment follow @LudlowAFC on Twitter, watch on YouTube or visit their Facebook page.
Article By: Lewis Deakin
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