MARK Cooper is hoping that Jay McEveley will be given an afternoon to forget when he returns to the County Ground today.

The tough-tackling defender became somewhat of a fans favourite last season, especially as it became apparent his time in Swindon was coming to an end. McEveley made an emotional exit against Rotherham at the end of last season, receiving a standing ovation that brought a tear to the eye of the player.

With Scotland’s international’s pedigree it was no surprise that he was picked up by one of the top clubs in League One, Sheffield United, when he became a free agent over the summer.

The 29-year-old has started five games for his new club but did get withdrawn at half-time on Tuesday against Colchester having picked up a booking.

Cooper was full of praise for his former charge upon his departure and now upon his return for an opposing team. However the Town boss hopes by employing Nathan Byrne up against McEveley the former Robin will come out worse off.

“He (McEveley) may not play, they were losing when he came off and obviously they came back and won,” said Cooper.

“So whether he plays I don’t know. Of course we’re going to get Byrnie to try and take him on, to twist and turn and do what he does and see what happens.

“He’ll be desperate to play, to come back and show what a good player he is. I know he really enjoyed his time here but these things happen, people move on.

“I hope he gets a good one (reception) because while I’ve been at the football club he was outstanding. He worked really hard to get himself back from a terrible knee injury. He made it easy for me when I became manager.

“He was one of the more experienced voices in the changing room and his form was outstanding towards the end of last season. I hope he gets a real good reception, I know he was a crowd favourite at the end of last year.

“When he came off in the Rotherham game he got a standing ovation which was thoroughly deserved and I’m looking forward to seeing him.”