Everton could be set to welcome back long-term absentee Seamus Coleman this weekend, with the veteran now in full training.
Coleman picked up a long-term injury at the end of last season, and the 35-year-old only returned to outdoor training last week.
He was initially training alone, with his return some way off, but it now appears that he is in full training the rest of the Everton team ahead of this weekend’s clash against West Ham.
Coleman returns to Everton training
The Everton squad completed a training session on the pitch at Goodison Park, and Coleman has been pictured participating with the rest of his teammates.
It is still not totally clear whether this means he will be able to return to the matchday squad, but this is a clearly positive sign that he could return soon.
The £55k-per-week star is beyond his best years, but he would still bring a lot of leadership and experience to the back line, and could help solidify the defence when he does return.
Could Coleman start on Sunday?
Even if he is fit to return to the matchday squad, it seems highly unlikely that Coleman will be thrown straight into the starting XI.
Ashley Young is currently suspended following his red card against Liverpool, meaning that if Coleman was fit, he would be in contention to start.
Coleman, who some may describe as an Everton legend, would have been a useful option to have in the absence of Young, and Sean Dyche has little choice other than to trust Nathan Patterson this weekend. However, if Coleman can return to the bench at least, Dyche will have an extra option to bring on at West Ham.
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