Seamus Coleman hailed a ‘hero’ by national media after special scenes away from Everton
Seamus Coleman helped Republic of Ireland to a clean sheet and a 2-0 win over Portugal on Thursday.
Ireland beat Portugal in a crucial World Cup qualifying match, which now sees Coleman‘s country in with a shot at reaching next year’s finals.
Coleman has not had many minutes for Everton this season due to his age, but the 37-year-old showed he still can play and perform against some of the best in the world.
Everton regard Coleman as a legend on Merseyside for his contribution over his 15-year stay at the Toffees, and will be delighted to hear what the Irish media have said on him.
Seamus Coleman praised after man-marking Cristiano Ronaldo
David Moyes will have been biting his nails at Jordan Pickford’s potential injury while playing for England, as he will want his Blues players to all return fit after the break.
Ireland are now third in Group F, and with one game left to play, they can still automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup should results go their way.
- Coleman won four ground duels against Portugal
- He won 100% of his tackles
- Coleman kept a pass accuracy of 71%
The Irish media loved a “heroic” performance against Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Portugal.
“Still and always the team’s spiritual leader. It was notable that Ireland put him on Ronaldo at corners, knowing his experience would make up for any height disadvantage,” as quoted by The Times, who gave him an 8/10 rating.
The 42 said: “He demonstrated once again why he is so highly regarded within football,” and they handed Coleman a 9/10 rating.
Finally, Sports Joe said: “The captain organised everything and made sure the focus and desire never faded,” with Coleman receiving another 8/10.
With Coleman’s performance showing he is still capable of contributing to a team’s success, his contract will make for an interesting discussion at the end of the season.
Coleman may retire in 2026
Coleman’s contract is due to expire on 30 June 2026, as this year could be his final on Merseyside – as a player.
There have been talks of Coleman joining Everton’s coaching staff once he retires, as the experienced defender will look to help the Toffees beyond his playing days.
There would be no better way than for Coleman to help Everton achieve European football this season, as winning a trophy may prove to difficult a task for the Blues this time around.
| Appearances | Goals |
| 432 | 28 |
Coleman has been one of Everton’s greatest players and it will be a sad day to see him go.
But for now, Everton fans can be happy that they have such a fantastic player in the dressing room who can still put on fantastic performances.
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