MARK Cooper believes that Yaser Kasim is making the most of the opportunity given to him at Swindon Town.

The midfielder joined the County Ground side last season after being let go by Brighton and Hove Albion and Tottenham as a youngster.

Since arriving at SN1, Cooper feels that Iraqi international, who opened the scoring in the 2-0 success over Crewe on Saturday, has become an integral member of his squad.

“He has been released from a few clubs. They have not really had belief in that he is a fantastic footballer,” Cooper said.

“We play a system that suits him. He can totally control the game with his ability. With players like him you have to play football.

“I think that he has been unfortunate with the clubs that he has been at. They have not played to his strengths. He has done brilliant (here).

“He got an opportunity with us last year when he thought that he would probably not get another opportunity in league football again. He has taken it with both hands.”

Cooper felt that Kasim’s goal, a sublime 25-yard curling free-kick, was worth all the pain.

“Yaser has lost about 25 balls up at Liddington, we still can’t find them, I have got thorns everywhere, a nettle rash from fetching all the balls after training,” the Town boss added. “But it (the goal) was well worth it.

“That was great finish, he had another one towards the end and the keeper has made a great save, but he was outstanding again.”