Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has given a welcome verdict about Everton full-back Seamus Coleman.
Ireland sadly came up short in their bid to reach the Euro qualifying play-off final on Friday night, losing to Czechia in a penalty shootout.
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It was a mighty performance vs Czech Republic from him 👏
Ireland almost won in normal time, but conceded a late equaliser to Ladislav Krejci.
They’d been aiming to end a 24-year wait to play at a World Cup finals. But they’ll now have to wait a little while longer.
Despite a disappointing result for the Irish, it was at least good to see Seamus Coleman getting a full game under his belt.
Coleman drew praise from the Irish media for his performance – and the comments of Hallgrímsson were also encouraging, if not actually quite surprising.
Seamus Coleman still sprightly at 37 as Hallgrímsson hails Everton ace
These days, it’s rare that we see Coleman playing for Everton.
This term, he’s made just five appearances for the Toffees, made up of three cameo showings in the Premier League and two starts in the Carabao Cup.
Injuries have once again limited his involvement.
But Coleman returned to training at Everton in January, and has been looking to push the likes of Jake O’Brien and Nathan Patterson for right-back minutes.
David Moyes hasn’t turned to him yet since he came back, but Ireland manager Hallgrímsson said about the 37-year-old may now change the Scot’s perception of him slightly.
On the prospect of him carrying on with the national team he said (via Irish Mirror): “I think it’s just how he played [in Prague] and how he acts in the squad, it would be good for us that he will continue but it’s him [to decide]. He is the one that answers these questions.
“It would be his move first. At the moment he is playing at that level. We definitely gain from having him. Our gain is him being with us.
“So I would not ask that question. I think it’s unfair [with] how he is playing.
“I can’t say. But just because of a number, it shouldn’t be a reason why he should stop if you’re implying he should stop.
“Nobody was as energised as him in this camp.”
That last line is a testament to Coleman’s work ethic and professionalism.
Who should Everton be keeping and letting go this summer? 🫣
Despite his advancing years and injury problems, he has just been the most sprightly player in the whole Ireland camp, which is encouraging to hear.
A decision will be taken on Coleman this summer at Everton regarding whether he stays on as a player, or perhaps joins Moyes’ coaching staff.
Most are expecting the former, but verdicts like the one from Hallgrímsson may suggest it’s not quite so clear-cut.
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