Seamus Coleman has shared what really ‘interests’ him about Everton fans.
Speaking to The Irish News, the defender has hailed his supporters and has explained his understanding of the ‘certain demands’ they have of the players.
Despite a horrific couple of seasons at Goodison Park full of protests and criticism, Coleman has remained one of the ever-present positivities after spending eight years on Merseyside.
The Toffees captain has been out of action since May, but has made over 400 appearances for his club and has formed an exceptional bond with his supporters.
Coleman now has a great understanding of the Blues and believes his team need to thrive off the pressure that they offer for 90 minutes on a weekend.
“You’re playing at a high level for such a big football club,” Coleman said.
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“It always interests me this about the supporters – our supporters are unbelievable, they’re incredible supporters. But if you don’t play well, don’t perform, you’re not going to get a tap on the back on the way off, and you shouldn’t expect that.
“You want the pressure of playing for this football club. They [the supporters] have got certain demands from you. They’ll back you 100 per cent if they see you giving that. I think we have got to understand that you have to perform to get plaudits.”
Everton came under immense pressure as soon as they managed to avoid relegation last season, with questions quickly forming over whether they could do it again this time round.
Coleman thinks Everton players need to work for the fans’ plaudits
It didn’t take them long to buckle under the pressure, though thankfully the weekend’s 4-0 thrashing by Aston Villa didn’t come in front of the 40,000 fans that occupy Goodison Park.
Fans have been left frustrated and angered by the Toffees’ apparent acceptance of relegation – only two matches into the campaign.
Seamus Coleman clearly understands the club and the fans – now Everton need all their players to just ‘get it’ like he does.