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Steve Cook
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Steve Cook
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Steve Anthony Cook (born 19 April 1991) is an English professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for EFL Championship club Queens Park Rangers.

Key Information

Career

[edit]

Brighton & Hove Albion

[edit]

Born in Hastings, East Sussex, Cook made his first-team debut for Brighton & Hove Albion during the League Cup third round victory over Manchester City on 24 September 2008.[4] He made his second substitute appearance for Brighton during a 2–1 FA Cup first round replay defeat against Hartlepool United on 18 November 2008.[5]

On 23 December 2008, Cook joined Conference South team Havant & Waterlooville on loan for six-weeks.[6] When this loan expired, he once again found himself involved in the Brighton first team, making his third substitute appearance for the club during the Football League Trophy Southern Final penalty shoot-out defeat to Luton Town.[7]

Cook made his first league appearance for Brighton during a 4–0 home defeat to Crewe Alexandra on 28 February 2009.[8]

He, along with fellow youth players Steve Brinkhurst and Josh Pelling, signed professional contracts with Brighton on 7 May 2009.[9]

On 20 November 2009, Cook joined Conference South team Eastleigh on loan to gain first-team match experience. He was sent off on his debut in a 1–1 draw with Lewes in the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy on 21 November 2009.[10]

On 16 September 2010, Cook once again went on loan, this time to Conference Premier side Eastbourne Borough where he spent a month.[11] After making seven appearances and scoring once, Eastbourne were keen to extend the loan deal for the player,[12] but were however unsuccessful as he later joined Conference Premier rivals Mansfield Town on a loan deal lasting until January 2011.[13] Brighton manager Gus Poyet later revealed that he felt Cook would add another ingredient to his footballing education by spending time away from Sussex and that it would force him to "grow up".[14]

Cook made his first appearance for Brighton in over two and a half years during the League Cup game against Liverpool in September 2011.

AFC Bournemouth

[edit]

Initial loan and League One

[edit]

On 27 October 2011, Cook joined League One side AFC Bournemouth on loan.[15] On 3 January 2012, Cook re-joined Bournemouth permanently for £150,000 signing a three-and-a-half-year deal, after making an initial 8 appearances during his loan spell.[16] Cook made a further 18 appearances for the Cherries in the 2011/12 season, as the club finished 11th in League One.

The following season began poorly for Cook and the Cherries, with the club winning just 1 of their first 11 games, languishing bottom of the league, and parting ways with manager Paul Groves on 3 October.[17] Cook appeared in just 8 of the first 20 league games this season, before finally putting together a run of starts for the side, beginning with a 2–1 win against Scunthorpe United on 8 December.[18] Cook and Bournemouth then enjoyed a club-record setting run of 8 consecutive victories, culminating in a 3–1 home win against Carlisle United. Cook scored his first goal of the season in this game, which saw Bournemouth promoted to the Championship.[19] Cook finished the season having made 38 appearances for the club in total across all competitions.

Championship & Promotion to the Premier League

[edit]
Cook playing for AFC Bournemouth in 2015.

Cook made a decent start to his first season in the Championship with Bournemouth, starting the first 20 league games of the season and being a consistent presence for the club. He scored his first ever Championship goal in a 5–2 home win against Millwall on 5 October.[20] Cook scored his second goal of the season, and the only goal of the game, in a 0–1 away win against Barnsley on 22 March,[21] and he then scored again in a 2–2 draw away to Ipswich on 21 April.[22] Cook finished his first season-proper of Championship football having made 40 appearances for the club in all competitions, as Bournemouth recorded their highest ever league finish of 10th.

The 2014–15 season started well for Cook, playing in and keeping a clean sheet in the 0–4 opening day win away at Huddersfield Town.[23] Cook went on to score in the games against Blackburn and Rotherham on 23 August[24] and 13 September[25] respectively. Bournemouth went on an impressive run of 14 games unbeaten, a period in which Cook played every single minute, beginning with a 1–2 away win at Bolton on 4 October[26] and ending with a 1–2 home defeat to Norwich City on 10 January.[27] Within this period Cook played in the Cherries 0–8 away win against Birmingham City; which is Bournemouth's highest league win in recorded history.[28]

The Cherries would then go on another undefeated streak, which would last until the end of the season, starting with a 0–0 home draw against Blackburn.[29] Cook scored his fourth goal of the season, a screamer against Fulham in a 1–5 away win that lifted the Cherries into first on goal difference, on 6 March.[30] Cook started in and played the full 90 minutes in the pivotal home game against Bolton on 27 April. With the Cherries far superior goal difference to third placed Middlesbrough FC, a win in the penultimate game would all but confirm the club's promotion to the Premier League; Bournemouth went on to seal an impressive 3–0 win to do just that.[31] Cook repeated the trick with the Cherries by playing the full 90 minutes once more in the final game of the season against Charlton, a 0–3 away win that secured not just the promotion, but the Championship title as well, with Watford failing to beat Sheffield Wednesday in their final game.[32] Cook was ever-present in the 2014–15 season, playing in all 46 games and scoring 4 goals as Bournemouth won the Championship and were promoted to the Premier League.

Premier League years

[edit]

On 4 December 2016, he scored to equalise and then created the winning goal as Bournemouth completed one of the comebacks of the season to beat Liverpool for the first time in their history 4–3 in a sensational Premier League game.[33] He made his 300th appearance for the Cherries in February 2019.[34]

Nottingham Forest

[edit]

On 4 January 2022, Cook moved to Championship side Nottingham Forest on a two-and-a-half-year contract for an undisclosed fee.[35]

In May 2022, Cook won promotion with Nottingham Forest to the Premier League via the playoffs, beating Huddersfield Town 1-0 in the final as Cook played the full 90 minutes. In the playoff 2nd leg Cook scored a penalty in the shootout against Sheffield United to put Forest 3-1 on penalties at the time.

Cook went on to make 14 appearances in all competitions during the 2022-23 season, playing his part to help Forest secure Premier League survival.

Queens Park Rangers

[edit]

On 9 August 2023, Cook signed for Championship club Queens Park Rangers on a two-year contract for an undisclosed fee.[36] Cook was voted the club's Player of the Year in his first season at the club, his defensive performance being a key factor in the club's upturn in form following the appointment of Martí Cifuentes.[37]

On 12 May 2025, the club announced it had activated an extension clause in the player's contract.[38]

Personal life

[edit]

On 23 June 2022, Cook was announced to have taken majority ownership of eleventh tier side Westfield, based just north of Cook's birthplace of Hastings.[39][40]

Career statistics

[edit]
As of match played 24 January 2026
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League FA Cup League Cup Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Brighton & Hove Albion 2008–09[41] League One 2 0 1 0 1 0 1[a] 0 5 0
2011–12[42] Championship 1 0 0 0 1 0 — 2 0
Total 3 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 7 0
Havant & Waterlooville (loan) 2008–09[41] Conference South 5 0 0 0 — 3[b] 0 8 0
Eastleigh (loan) 2009–10[43] Conference South 10 0 0 0 — 2[b] 0 12 0
Eastbourne Borough (loan) 2010–11[44] Conference Premier 7 1 0 0 — 0 0 7 1
Mansfield Town (loan) 2010–11[45] Conference Premier 8 0 2 0 — 1[b] 0 11 0
AFC Bournemouth (loan) 2011–12[42] League One 8 0 0 0 — 1[a] 0 9 0
AFC Bournemouth 2011–12[42] League One 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 18 0
2012–13[46] League One 33 1 4 0 0 0 1[a] 0 38 1
2013–14[47] Championship 38 3 1 0 1 0 — 40 3
2014–15[48] Championship 46 5 2 0 1 0 — 49 5
2015–16[49] Premier League 36 4 1 0 1 0 — 38 4
2016–17[50] Premier League 38 2 1 0 0 0 — 39 2
2017–18[51] Premier League 34 2 2 1 4 0 — 40 3
2018–19[52] Premier League 31 1 1 0 3 1 — 35 2
2019–20[53] Premier League 29 1 2 0 0 0 — 31 1
2020–21[54] Championship 42 0 3 0 1 0 1[c] 0 47 0
2021–22[55] Championship 3 0 0 0 1 0 — 4 0
Total 356 19 17 1 12 1 3 0 388 21
Nottingham Forest 2021–22[55] Championship 14 0 3 0 — 3[c] 0 20 0
2022–23[56] Premier League 12 0 1 0 1 0 — 14 0
Total 26 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 34 0
Queens Park Rangers 2023–24[57] Championship 36 2 0 0 0 0 — 36 2
2024–25[58] Championship 31 2 0 0 2 0 — 33 2
2025–26[59] Championship 24 1 1 0 0 0 — 25 1
Total 91 5 1 0 2 0 — 94 5
Career total 506 25 25 1 17 1 13 0 561 27
  1. ^ a b c Appearance in Football League Trophy
  2. ^ a b c Appearances in FA Trophy
  3. ^ a b Appearances in the Championship play-offs

Honours

[edit]

AFC Bournemouth

Nottingham Forest

Individual

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Steve Cook

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Steve Anthony Cook (born 19 April 1991) is an English professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for club Queens Park Rangers. Born in , , Cook progressed through the youth academy at Brighton & Hove Albion before joining in 2011, where he made over 350 appearances and served as captain during their seven-year spell in the from 2015 to 2022. He later played for Forest, helping them secure promotion to the in 2022, and signed with Queens Park Rangers in August 2023 on a deal extended through 2025.

Club career

Brighton & Hove Albion (2008–2011)

Born on 19 April 1991 in , , Steve Cook joined & Hove Albion's youth academy as a promising defender, progressing through the ranks to the by 2009. Cook made his senior debut for on 24 September 2008, entering as a substitute during a memorable second-round victory over Manchester City at , which ended 2–2 after extra time before advanced 5–3 on penalties. His second appearance came in the first-round replay against United on 18 November 2008, where he again featured from the bench in a 1–2 defeat. In the 2008–09 League One season, Cook earned his first league outing on 28 February 2009, substituting in a 0–4 home loss to Crewe Alexandra alongside fellow academy product Steve Brinkhurst. These early cameos highlighted his potential but also the challenges of breaking into the first team, as he continued developing primarily with the reserves during the 2009–10 campaign. The 2010–11 season brought further limited opportunities in League One and cup competitions, with Cook making substitute appearances, including in a 2–0 league win over MK Dons on 11 September 2010. Despite Brighton's promotion push under manager , competition for defensive places restricted his involvement, prompting a one-month loan to Eastbourne Borough in September 2010 to gain experience. This was followed by a three-month loan to Mansfield Town in late October 2010, where he sought regular minutes in the Conference Premier. Over his time at Brighton from 2008 to 2011, Cook accumulated five senior appearances without scoring, underscoring a period of gradual maturation amid stiff competition in the club's backline.

Early career at AFC Bournemouth (2011–2015)

Steve Cook joined AFC Bournemouth on a one-month loan from Brighton & Hove Albion in October 2011, making his debut in a 3–1 League One victory over Preston North End on 29 October. He impressed enough for the club to secure him on a permanent basis in January 2012 for a fee of £150,000, marking his transition to a full-time role in the third tier. At 20 years old, Cook faced initial challenges adapting to consistent League One football, having accumulated limited senior minutes at Brighton over the previous two years; described as shy and reserved in early interviews, he gradually built composure through strong headed clearances and tackles against experienced forwards. Partnering initially with defenders like Miles Addison, he began forming the defensive partnerships that would define his tenure, contributing to a backline that emphasized solidity under returning manager Eddie Howe. In his breakthrough 2011–12 season, Cook made 27 appearances as Bournemouth narrowly avoided relegation, finishing 21st in League One with a run of form that secured their status. The following 2012–13 campaign saw him establish himself as a regular, featuring in 38 matches and scoring his first goal for the club—a headed opener in a 3–1 home win over Carlisle United on 20 April 2013, a result pivotal to their push for promotion. His consistent performances alongside helped Bournemouth achieve second place and direct promotion to the , conceding just 53 goals in 46 league games. Cook's aerial presence and reading of the game were highlighted as key to the defensive resilience that underpinned Howe's attacking style. Bournemouth's 2013–14 debut in the tested Cook further, but he responded with 40 appearances and three goals, including a late winner in a 1–0 victory at in March 2014, aiding a respectable 10th-place finish. The 2014–15 season proved transformative, with Cook starting over 46 matches and netting five goals, his physicality and partnerships—particularly with Elphick—central to a defense that conceded only 38 league goals en route to the win and promotion to the . His contributions, including standout displays in high-stakes fixtures, underscored his evolution from loanee to cornerstone defender during Bournemouth's rapid ascent.

Bournemouth in the Premier League (2015–2022)

Cook made his Premier League debut for in their inaugural top-flight season of 2015–16, featuring in 36 matches as the team secured survival with a 16th-place finish under manager . Despite the challenges of adapting to elite-level competition, his reliable defending contributed to a defensive record that conceded 56 goals, helping the Cherries avoid relegation on the final day. Over the subsequent seasons from 2016–17 to 2019–20, Cook established himself as a cornerstone of Bournemouth's backline, starting consistently and missing 22 of the club's 190 league fixtures across their five-year spell, underscoring his reputation for durability and dependability. He scored 10 goals in total during this period, including a memorable volleyed equalizer in a thrilling 4–3 home victory over on 4 December 2016, where his composed defending helped orchestrate a late comeback from 3–1 down. Another highlight came in August 2018, when he netted the winner in a 2–1 away win at United, rising to head home a free-kick and secure three vital points early in the campaign. In July 2020, following the departure of long-serving defender Simon Francis, Cook was appointed club captain, a role that reflected his leadership qualities and deep connection to the club after nearly a decade of service. He led the team in the 2020–21 Championship season after relegation, captaining them to promotion via the play-offs, though Bournemouth ultimately returned to the second tier at the end of 2019–20 with an 18th-place finish. In 2021–22, injuries limited his involvement to just three league appearances despite retaining the captaincy, as recurring knee issues hampered his availability amid the club's push for another promotion. Cook's longevity at was rewarded with a four-year contract extension in May 2017, tying him to the club until 2021 and affirming his status as a key figure in their journey. Fans held him in high regard for his unwavering commitment, often hailing him as a "one-club man" who embodied the club's rise from lower leagues to the top flight.

Nottingham Forest (2022–2023)

In January 2022, Steve Cook joined Nottingham Forest on a free transfer from after his contract expired, signing a two-and-a-half-year deal. The move brought experience to a Forest side pushing for promotion in the , where Cook quickly integrated into the backline under manager Steve Cooper. Cook made an immediate impact during the 2021–22 season, featuring in 14 matches and all three playoff ties, including the semi-final victory over Sheffield United and the final against Huddersfield Town. His defensive solidity was pivotal in the 1–0 win at on 29 May 2022, securing Forest's return to the after a 23-year absence, and in the crucial 1–0 away win over on 26 April 2022 that aided the playoff run. Often partnering with captain Joe Worrall and in a back three, Cook's and aerial presence helped stabilize the defense during the promotion push. In the season, Cook made 12 appearances, starting 11, as navigated a turbulent campaign marked by heavy spending and squad rotation. His experience proved valuable amid the relegation battle, contributing to two clean sheets in the top flight, where he featured in key draws and victories that bolstered survival efforts. finished 16th, avoiding relegation, with Cook praised for his vocal presence and composure in a young, overhauled defense. Cook's time at Forest ended in August 2023 when he departed on a permanent transfer to Queens Park Rangers after 34 total appearances across all competitions.

Queens Park Rangers (2023–present)

In August 2023, Steve Cook joined Queens Park Rangers on a free transfer from Nottingham Forest, signing a two-year contract until June 2025. He reunited with former teammate , who had signed for QPR earlier that summer. Cook made an immediate impact in the 2023–24 EFL Championship season, featuring in 36 league matches and scoring two goals as QPR secured an 18th-place finish to avoid relegation. His consistent performances in central defense earned him the club's Player of the Season award, highlighting his role in stabilizing the backline amid a turbulent campaign. During the 2024–25 season, Cook continued as a regular starter, making 31 appearances and adding two more goals while QPR finished 15th in the table. In May 2025, QPR activated a one-year extension clause in his contract, extending his stay until June 2026 and appointing him club captain to leverage his experience as a veteran leader. Into the 2025–26 season, Cook reached the milestone of 500 professional league appearances on 16 August 2025, during an away 2–1 defeat to Watford. He has maintained his position as a key defensive organizer, contributing occasional set-piece goals and assists while providing leadership to younger defenders, with notable performances including crucial tackles in matches against promotion contenders like Burnley in October 2024. As of November 2025, his contract remains active until June 2026.

Personal life

Early life and family

Steve Cook was born on 19 April 1991 in , , . Raised in the coastal town, he attended William Parker School, where he first showcased his football talent alongside aspiring players from the local area. His early passion for the sport was shaped by the success of natives who advanced to professional levels, inspiring Cook to pursue opportunities in youth academies. Cook maintains strong ties to his family, which has played a central role in his personal life. He is married and became a in the mid-2010s, welcoming sons Frey in approximately 2015 and Eden in approximately 2017. By 2018, Cook had openly credited his family with transforming his approach to his career, noting that fatherhood instilled a deeper sense of purpose and commitment. In interviews, Cook has emphasized the emotional bond with his wife and children as a primary motivator, describing them as the core of what drives him both on and off the pitch. "I am quite an emotional guy, quite a passionate man so my kids, my wife, my family and my team-mates are what drives me," he stated in 2018. This family foundation has remained a constant amid his professional transitions, underscoring their supportive influence throughout his life.

Off-field activities

In June 2022, Cook acquired a majority stake in Westfield FC, an 11th-tier non-league club competing in the Mid- Football League Premier Division and based near his hometown of in Sussex. As part owner, he has actively contributed to the club's management and development, emphasizing a commitment to football and community growth in the region. Under his ownership, Westfield achieved a fifth-place finish in the 2024–25 season, demonstrating steady progress in the league standings. Cook was elected to the (PFA) Players' Board in November 2024, where he represents players' interests and advocates for improvements in welfare issues, including support within the sport. His involvement stems from a desire to address broader challenges in professional football, such as player well-being and representation. In media appearances, Cook has discussed his career , notably in an August 2025 interview with Queens Park Rangers following his 500th professional league appearance, reflecting on sustained performance at age 34. Earlier that year, in May 2025, he spoke about his contract extension with QPR, highlighting ongoing contributions to the team. Cook holds a B coaching license and has expressed interest in pursuing opportunities after his playing career, aligning with his broader involvement in football development. In , he supported community efforts by donating a signed shirt to replace one stolen from a local charity auction.

Playing style and reception

Playing attributes

Steve Cook, standing at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) tall, has demonstrated strong aerial ability throughout his career as a centre-back, with notable seasons including 145 aerial duels won during the 2016-17 campaign for . His height contributes to this prowess. Cook's tackling is complemented by solid positioning that averages 1.0 interceptions per game in his 2022-23 season at Nottingham Forest. As a ball-playing defender, Cook favors long balls to transition play quickly, a style highlighted by his preference for playing the ball off the ground often rather than diving into challenges. During his peak years at , he achieved around 78% overall passing accuracy in the , with long pass completion rates reaching around 61% in later outings and improving short-pass proficiency as he adapted to higher levels. This evolution allowed him to contribute more to build-up play, attempting about 8 long passes per 90 minutes in the 2019-20 season. Physically robust, Cook exhibits strong endurance, frequently completing full 90-minute matches across leagues, and has shown resilience in recovering from injuries to maintain consistent availability. His career totals reflect this durability, with 182 appearances. Despite these strengths, Cook has shown occasional lapses in high-pressing systems, such as a defensive error leading to a goal against Hull City in 2016. He has also accumulated yellow cards at a rate of about 0.12 per match in play, averaging roughly 4 bookings per full season due to combative defending. Cook's development traces from a raw tackler in League One during his early days to a more composed organizer in the , where his reading of the game and emerged prominently by 2020. This progression is evident in his transition from non-league loans to captaining in top-flight fixtures. At Queens Park Rangers as of November 2025, Cook continues to provide defensive stability following a contract extension in May 2025.

Reputation and legacy

Steve Cook is widely regarded as a fan favorite at , where his unwavering loyalty over more than a decade cemented his status as a club icon. Having made 388 appearances for the Cherries since joining permanently in 2011, Cook became synonymous with the club's rise from League One to the , earning the affectionate nickname "Mr. Dependable" for his consistent performances and commitment. Among peers and managers, Cook has received praise for his professionalism and leadership qualities. Former Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe frequently highlighted Cook's defensive reliability and positive response to challenges, such as adapting to bench roles during the 2019-2020 season, describing his attitude as "incredible." Cook's career has been notably free of major controversies, with even a brief public disagreement with Howe in 2020 resolved amicably, underscoring his reputation for maturity. Media coverage has often focused on Cook's longevity and contributions to Bournemouth's success, portraying him as a symbol of the club's transformative era, including their historic 2015 promotion to the top flight. In August 2025, he reached a personal milestone of 500 professional league and cup appearances, a feat celebrated in interviews where he credited teammates, managers, and supporters. Fans and club officials have discussed plans for a in recognition of his service, positioning him as a strong candidate for Bournemouth's hall of fame. Despite his domestic consistency, one noted criticism in Cook's career is his lack of international call-ups for , despite endorsements from Howe and analysts who argued his form warranted consideration during Bournemouth's years. This absence has been attributed to stiff competition in the center-back position rather than any deficiency in his play.

Career statistics and records

Club appearances and goals

Steve Cook has made over 500 club appearances throughout his professional career, scoring 25 goals and providing 5 assists as of November 2025. His appearances are distributed across several clubs, beginning with a brief stint at Brighton & Hove Albion where he recorded 3 appearances and 0 goals. At , Cook established himself as a key player, accumulating 387 appearances and 21 goals. He then moved to Nottingham Forest, making 31 appearances without scoring. Since joining Queens Park Rangers in 2023, he has added 79 appearances and 4 goals to his tally. In May 2025, Cook's contract was extended following the activation of a performance clause after over 60 league appearances in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons. In terms of competitions, Cook has featured extensively in the with 180 appearances and 10 goals, primarily during his time at and a shorter spell at . His Championship record stands at 222 appearances and 12 goals across multiple clubs. In League One, he has 61 appearances and 1 goal, mostly with . Cup competitions account for the remaining 42 appearances and 2 goals. The following table summarizes Cook's season-by-season statistics in domestic leagues, including appearances, goals, yellow cards, and red cards (data up to 2025).
SeasonClubLeagueAppsGoalsYellow CardsRed Cards
2008-2009League One2000
2010-2011Conf Premier8010
2011-20121000
2011-2012League One26040
2012-2013League One33120
2013-201438350
2014-2015465100
2015-2016Premier Lg36450
2016-2017Premier Lg38250
2017-2018Premier Lg34250
2018-2019Premier Lg31130
2019-2020Premier Lg29161
2020-202142041
2021-20223010
2021-2022Nott'ham Forest14000
2022-2023Nott'ham ForestPremier Lg12040
2023-2024QPR36230
2024-2025QPR31240
2025-2026QPR11020
Total47123632

Milestones

Steve Cook reached his 100th appearance for during the 2013–14 season, contributing to the club's promotion push that year. His 300th appearance for the club came on February 2, 2019, in a 2–0 defeat to Cardiff City, marking a significant personal milestone amid Bournemouth's established top-flight presence. In August 2025, Cook achieved his 500th professional league appearance during Queens Park Rangers' match against on August 17, a 2–1 loss that highlighted his enduring career longevity at age 34. Key promotion-related milestones include his first appearance on August 22, 2015, in 's 2–1 home defeat to Aston Villa, where he scored the Cherries' only goal to briefly equalize. His debut occurred in the 2020–21 season following Simon Francis's departure, leading from the opening match against Rovers on September 12, 2020. Among his goal-scoring landmarks, Cook netted his 10th goal on November 23, 2019, heading in Bournemouth's consolation strike during a 1–2 home loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers. Defensively, he was instrumental in Bournemouth's club-record run of eight consecutive victories during the 2014–15 campaign, starting all matches in that streak and helping secure promotion. Across his tenure with and , Cook contributed to 35 clean sheets in 180 appearances, underscoring his reliability as a centre-back. No confirmed international youth call-ups for appear in Cook's record, with his career focused primarily on club achievements.

Honours

Team achievements

During his time at , Steve Cook played a pivotal role in the club's back-to-back promotions that elevated them to the for the first time in their history. In the 2012–13 League One season, finished second and secured automatic promotion to the , with Cook featuring in 33 league appearances as a key defender. The following year, in 2013–14, the team consolidated their position with a 10th-place finish, before Cook was ever-present in the 2014–15 Championship-winning campaign, starting all 46 league matches and contributing to a record 98 points that earned promotion to the . Bournemouth then maintained their status for five consecutive seasons from 2015–16 to 2019–20, achieving mid-table finishes including a club-best ninth place in 2016–17, with Cook as a regular starter and occasional in over 150 top-flight appearances. The club did not win any major competitions during this period, though they reached the fifth round twice. After joining Nottingham Forest in January 2022, Cook contributed to their promotion to the via the play-offs that season. He started in the play-off final at , where Forest defeated Huddersfield Town 1–0 to return to the top flight after a 23-year absence. Forest have since preserved their status through the 2024–25 season, establishing mid-table consistency without major cup successes.

Individual recognitions

Steve Cook has received several club-specific individual honors throughout his career, primarily fan-voted and player-selected awards recognizing his consistent defensive performances. During the season with , Cook won three Player of the Year awards, including the club's official Player of the Season, the supporters' Player of the Season, and the Daily Echo-Micky Cave Supporters' Player of the Year, as praised by then-manager for his "thoroughly deserving" contributions amid a challenging campaign. Cook was frequently nominated for Bournemouth's monthly player awards, receiving 16 nominations for Player of the Month between August 2015 and November 2019, though he never secured a monthly win despite his reliability in the backline. Earlier in his Bournemouth tenure, during the 2014–15 promotion season, Cook's ever-present role—featuring in all 46 league matches—earned him recognition among fans and peers, though no formal seasonal award is recorded beyond team-wide acclaim. Following his departure from Bournemouth in January 2022 after over a decade and 389 appearances, Cook received tributes for his longevity, including an emotional farewell interview highlighting his status as a club legend, though a planned was ultimately not held. In August 2025, Cook marked his 500th professional league appearance, prompting fan-voted appreciations and club features celebrating his enduring career milestone. At Queens Park Rangers in the 2023–24 season, Cook was voted the Supporters' Player of the Year for his solid defensive partnership and leadership, capping a successful debut campaign at the club. Cook has not received major national awards, such as inclusion in PFA Teams of the Year or Squad of the Season shortlists, but his consistent selections in club honors underscore his value as a reliable, no-nonsense defender.

References

  1. https://www.transfermarkt.us/steve-cook/profil/spieler/90836
  2. https://www.premierleague.com/players/8045/Steve-Cook/overview
  3. https://www.qpr.co.uk/players/stevecook
  4. https://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=49993
  5. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/7626796.stm
  6. https://www.espn.co.uk/football/match/_/gameId/256301/manchester-city-brighton-hove-albion
  7. https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/258512/brighton-hove-albion-hartlepool-united
  8. https://wearebrighton.com/albiondatabase/2010-11-the-stuff-of-champions-as-poyets-brighton-walk-league-one/
  9. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/e/eastbourne_borough/9006806.stm
  10. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/mansfield_town/9106089.stm
  11. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/15413698.stm
  12. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/28/bournemouth-buys-premier-league-promotion
  13. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2082278/2020/09/22/bournemouth-steve-cook-captain-jason-tindall/
  14. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/18390641.steve-cook-reflects-seven-years-first-football-league-goal-paved-way-promotion-championship/
  15. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/may/02/bournemouth-promotion-premier-league-confirmed-win-charlton-championship
  16. https://www.premierleague.com/players/56917/Steve-Cook/stats
  17. https://fbref.com/en/players/3e5e4e63/Steve-Cook
  18. https://fbref.com/en/squads/4ba7cbea/2015-2016/Bournemouth-Stats
  19. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask/steve-cook-premier-league-appearances
  20. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/38121184
  21. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/19473957.scott-parker-provides-update-steve-cook-injury/
  22. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11743/10892093/steve-cook-signs-four-year-bournemouth-extension
  23. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/59860544
  24. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3048722/2022/01/03/steve-cooks-move-from-bournemouth-will-give-forests-defence-what-they-lack-experience/
  25. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3338445/2022/05/29/nottingham-forest-promoted-to-premier-league-inside-clubs-greatest-week-for-23-years/
  26. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/60717008
  27. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2022/03/06/steve-cook-interview-moving-comfort-zone-make-history-nottingham/
  28. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask/steve-cook-stats-with-nottm-forest
  29. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3931846/2022/11/27/scott-worrall-nottingham-forest-cricket/
  30. https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2023/august/09/cook-departs-for-qpr/
  31. https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/2023/august/09/steve-cook-completes-qpr-move/
  32. https://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/23712981.qpr-new-boy-steve-cook-wants-bring-success-club/
  33. https://fbref.com/en/players/3e5e4e63/matchlogs/2023-2024/summary/Steve-Cook-Match-Logs
  34. https://fbref.com/en/squads/a757999c/2023-2024/Queens-Park-Rangers-Stats
  35. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/24282135.afc-bournemouth-legend-steve-cook-named-qpr-player-season/
  36. https://fbref.com/en/players/3e5e4e63/matchlogs/2024-2025/summary/Steve-Cook-Match-Logs
  37. https://www.soccerpunter.com/team/all/23672/47/Queens-Park-Rangers-in-England-Championship-2024-2025
  38. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cn84ldv4421o
  39. https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/2025/may/12/cook-extension/
  40. https://x.com/QPR/status/1956704410832093583
  41. https://www.footballwebpages.co.uk/queens-park-rangers/appearances/steve-cook/34301
  42. https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/744612/queens-park-rangers-watford
  43. https://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/queensparkrangers/news/63224/cook-rolls-back-the-years-as-qpr-stand-firm-for-first-clean-sheet-%25E2%2580%2593-report
  44. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/17242593.i-quite-emotional-guy-quite-passionate-man-kids-wife-family-team-mates-drives-/
  45. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61906955
  46. https://www.bbc.com/sport/articles/cn3512zvg4jo
  47. https://thesnlf.co.uk/the-leagues/mid-sussex-league-premier-division/mid-sussex-premier-division-table/
  48. https://www.thepfa.com/news/2024/11/4/pfa-confirms-election-of-new-players-board
  49. https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/2025/august/22/cook-interview/
  50. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJAOK2xLDk0
  51. https://uk.linkedin.com/in/steve-cook-39b977217
  52. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/15608781.afc-bournemouth-star-steve-cook-steps-in-to-replace-charitys-stolen-signed-shirt/
  53. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask/most-aerial-duels-won-by-a-defender-in-a-premier-league-season
  54. https://sportsdata.usatoday.com/soccer/epl/player/56917?team=17&season=2022
  55. https://www.whoscored.com/players/68662/show/steve-cook
  56. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11689/9784178/steve-cook-interview-bournemouth-defender-targeting-the-premier-league
  57. https://www.fotmob.com/players/156013/steve-cook
  58. https://fbref.com/en/players/3e5e4e63/scout/3232/Steve-Cook-Scouting-Report
  59. https://www.espn.com/soccer/report/_/gameId/450930
  60. https://www.xgstat.com/competitions/premier-league/10883/players/9277
  61. https://www.premierleague.com/en/news/876666
  62. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/1334422/2019/11/01/comment-steve-cook-is-mr-dependable/
  63. https://www.dorset.live/sport/football/football-news/ten-years-steve-cook-man-6117417
  64. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/19823778.neill-blake-confirms-plan-steve-cook-testimonial/
  65. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/18220734.eddie-howe-hails-incredible-response-steve-cook-losing-premier-league-place-simon-francis/
  66. https://jerseyeveningpost.com/uksport/2019/11/03/england-recognition-not-beyond-steve-cook-on-current-form-eddie-howe/
  67. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12020306/eddie-howe-steve-cook-wrong-to-criticise-bournemouth-in-public
  68. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QVryhZoKBw
  69. https://www.dorset.live/sport/football/steve-cook-bournemouth-testimonial-plans-7642635
  70. https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/why-afc-bournemouths-steve-cook-should-play-for-england-220915233.html
  71. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/17251837.howe-believes-cherries-star-steve-cook-gareth-southgates-thinking-england-call-up/
  72. https://footystats.org/players/england/steve-cook
  73. https://www.transfermarkt.us/steve-cook/leistungsdaten/spieler/90836
  74. https://theanalyst.com/football/player/sc-56917/steve-cook
  75. https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/steve-cook-makes-300th-bournemouth-appearance-125096
  76. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/17408483.non-league-300-cherries-appearances---steve-cook-labelled-inspiration-football-journey/
  77. https://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/queensparkrangers/news/64627/familiar-learnings-and-fresh-frustrations-as-qpr-lose-at-watford-%25E2%2580%2593-report
  78. https://fbref.com/en/players/3e5e4e63/matchlogs/2019-2020/summary/Steve-Cook-Match-Logs
  79. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/player/steve-cook-5990
  80. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/23459855.afc-bournemouth-league-one-promotion-decade---part-one/
  81. http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football/bournemouth/steve-cook-13531/league-appearances_a37798/
  82. https://prostinternational.com/2020/11/25/captain-leader-legend-steve-cook-brings-up-350-bournemouth-appearances/
  83. https://www.transfermarkt.com/afc-bournemouth/erfolge/verein/989
  84. https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/players/stevecook
  85. https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2024/05/29/where-are-they-now-the-nottingham-forest-xi-v-huddersfield-in-the-2021-22-championship-play-off-final/
  86. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39923705
  87. https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/15298390.steve-cook-is-thoroughly-deserving-winner-of-player-of-the-year-says-boss-eddie-howe/
  88. https://www.transfermarkt.com/steve-cook/leistungsdatendetails/spieler/90836/saison/2014/wettbewerb/GB2
  89. https://www.dorset.live/sport/football/football-news/every-word-steve-cook-said-6478155
  90. https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/2024/april/26/qpr-2324-awards/
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