With the International break having finally concluded, Everton’s focus can now return to the task at hand: Premier League survival.
And that starts this Saturday, with a trip to AFC Bournemouth.
Sean Dyche has a tough task on his hands to come away from the south coast with a victory, especially after the host’s latest triumph there, coming from three goals down to beat Luton Town 4-3.
The former Burnley boss would love that kind of spirit and goalscoring efforts from his players, but such a stark turnaround is unlikely.
However, they do have something which could provide an ample boost, as not only is Seamus Coleman back from injury, but he is bang back in form as well.
The national media rush to praise Seamus Coleman again
Well, after back-to-back stunning performances, the national media have rushed to laud the Everton captain.
And rightly so.
At 35 years old, many footballers would be forgiven for having hung up their boots and sailed off into the sunset with their endless fortunes and fulfilled careers.
However, Coleman is not like many footballers.
He is relentless, a true leader, and in Frank Lampard’s eyes one of the best men he has ever met. And he’s not bad on the pitch either.
The Republic of Ireland international exhibited that just last night again, as he actually won Player of the Match despite his side losing to Switzerland.
One post-match piece, in which the Irish Times handed him a 7/10 rating, also wrote: ‘Got forward as usual and played a good captain’s role. Ireland look to be trying to pass it out from the back more and Coleman was comfortable doing that. Also made a vital clearing header late on when Switzerland looked destined to score.’
Seamus Coleman must now start for Everton
Well, given this resurgence from the returning Coleman comes at a time when Dyche was struggling to nail down his right-back spot, his decision has surely been made for him.
With the perfect blend of experience, defensive intelligence, solidity and offensive know-how, the £55k-a-week veteran could fill the vacancy that has otherwise been plugged by the makeshift Ben Godfrey or the unreliable Ashley Young.
Coleman is neither of those things, and during his youthful prime was one of the Premier League’s best full-backs.
He must start for Everton now, and could provide the necessary boost needed to drag this team to survival.
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