Massive boost for Seamus Coleman ahead of Everton's final Goodison Park game
The Ireland legend, who has made over 400 appearances for the Toffees since his move from Sligo Rovers in January 2009, will be desperate to feature as the club signs off on a 133-year history with their Walton-based ground.
Everton will move to a brand new state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock ahead of the start of the 2025/26 season.
Coleman's prospects of a run-out in the Goodison curtain closer against Southampton on Sunday May 18 are looking a lot brighter now.
He had not featured for David Moyes' side since the 1-1 draw with Manchester City on December 26.
However, he was brought off the bench in the 90th minute of Saturday's 3-1 win away to Fulham, and played the seven minutes of additional time as the Toffees leapfrogged Wolves into 13th place in the Premier League.
It's been another tough season for the Ireland captain, with injuries restricting him to just five first-team appearances, including the Craven Cottage clash. Last season he played 13 times for the first-team.
Coleman's future is up in the air, with a number of possibilities on the table, but the most likely one would see Everton boss Moyes, who is eager to keep him at the club, offering him a one-year playing contract, combined with a coaching role.
Moyes spoke shortly after his return to the club of his fondness for the Donegalman, hinting at a wider role for Coleman in the future.
'He's a huge member of the dressing room, a huge member of the team – he leads the team brilliantly well here," said the Scot.
'From a distance, it looks as if he helped carry the club over a couple of years as well – he's a great spokesman for the team and for the club. He's really important to me.'
He then referred to Coleman's price tag, adding: 'We brought him here for 60 grand – we probably paid a bit much for him but, apart from that, we're really glad to have him!'
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