DEFENDER Mark Cooper is eager for the Weymouth squad to show “heart and desire” in their upcoming fixtures, starting with Monday’s Ridgeway derby at Dorchester (3pm).

The former Frome full-back believes the Terras’ supporters, some of which booed their side off after Saturday’s 1-1 home draw with St Ives Town, are entitled to express their opinions on the club’s league form and realises only the Weymouth squad can turn things around.

Cooper, a former youngster at Bristol Rovers, also stated that the Weymouth playing staff “owe the gaffer” after manager Jason Matthews’ position in charge has come under scrutiny in recent weeks.

He told Echosport: “We have got ourselves in this situation, we know we are good enough and, for some reason, it is not happening.

“It’s down to us to show a bit of character and a bit of heart and desire. We can’t hide in our shells and it’s up to us to dig it out.

“We owe the gaffer and the coaching staff everything really. Jase is the one that has put the team together and we are not doing it for him.

“He is the one taking all the hits and it’s up to us to put it right. What bigger game to come than on Boxing Day against Dorchester.”

Talking about the upcoming derby at the Avenue, Cooper said: “We know what it’s like up there, it’s going to be an ugly game in a derby but we have to show that grit and determination to go there and get the three points.

“We need to win.”

Asked about the negative reactions from supporters in recent weeks, the defender replied: “It’s football, you take it how it is.

“When you are winning, everyone is your best mate, when you are losing, you have to take it.

“Fans have their right to voice their opinions. The fans at Weymouth are the best fans in the league, I haven’t got a problem if they want to voice their opinions because they are entitled to.

“We are the only ones who can put it right and we will go again on Boxing Day.”