Credit: Imago

Cameron Smith

Thu 26 March 2026 22:17, UK Updated Thu 26 March 2026 22:37, UK

Seamus Coleman put in a superb performance for the Republic of Ireland as the Everton man started their World Cup play-off against Czechia.

The Toffees full-back, who has managed just 180 minutes of football this season, was trusted from the start for his country in Prague on Thursday.

Now 37, Coleman’s peak years may be in the past, but his importance as a key character for both club and country remains.

After playing 96 minutes into extra time on Thursday evening, the experienced defender was showered with praise as he rolled back the years.

It wasn’t to be in the end, though, as the Irish crashed to a heartbreaking defeat on penalties.

Seamus Coleman showered with praise during Ireland World Cup play-off

With fellow Irishman Jake O’Brien often operating on the right side of defence for the Toffees, Coleman has seen limited minutes this term.

Though with O’Brien starting in the middle of the defence for Ireland, Coleman was allowed minutes out on the right.

Speaking on the match on the live Sky Sports blog, reporter Sam Blitz piled the praise on the shoulders of Coleman.

“Tell you who has been a trooper so far for Ireland – Seamus Coleman, the Ireland captain, has not played for Everton since November. He’s only played 180 minutes for his club all season.

“But he’s playing like a man possessed down the Ireland right. Czech Republic have not been able to deal with him and Ogbene.”

Joining Everton from Sligo Rovers in 2009, the right-back has established himself as a modern-day Blues icon, even playing his part as interim manager following the sacking of Sean Dyche last season.

Seamus Coleman has been a huge Everton servant

Coleman has seen it all at Everton, and for a £60,000 transfer, he has to be up there as one of the best value-for-money signings that the Premier League has seen.

A huge character behind the scenes, and a fantastic footballer, the 37-year-old has deserved every single bit of success in his career, and the question will always remain as to what could have been if not for the horrific leg break injury in 2017.

With just months remaining on his current deal, the Irishman is set to leave the club at the end of the campaign.

With David Moyes’ side on the way to securing European football, it could just be the perfect farewell should he call time on his stint on Merseyside this summer.

And if that were to be the case, he would most definitely be remembered fondly.