Everton captain Seamus Coleman signs new contract
The Ireland defender has extended his stay at Goodison until 2023
Seamus Coleman will extend his Everton career into 14th season after it was confirmed the Toffees skipper has signed a new one-year contract.
The Republic of Ireland international was about to enter the final 12 months of his contract on Merseyside but is now committed to the club until June 2023.
He has made 350 senior appearances for the club since joining for just £60,000 from Sligo Rovers in January 2009
It means the veteran defender, who turns 33 in October, will likely see out his playing career in royal blue.
The best 60 grand the club has ever spent.
“I’m very happy – everyone around the football club and I’m sure all the fans know how much this club has meant to me from day one.
“It’s a massive honour to extend my time here. It was about getting my head down and to keep working hard like I’ve always done, and the club decided to reward me with that. It’s something I’m very happy with.
“Hopefully now I can keep going as long as possible, give my experience to the younger lads, help and support them in any way I can, and contribute on the pitch as much as possible.
“Discussions with Marcel, the Board and the manager were straight forward. It’s not something that I just wanted to be given. I worked very hard last season and thought I did quite well in the games that I played in.
“Every day in training I pushed myself to the limits and did all I could to stay and play for a big football club like this. I’m very thankful to Marcel, the manager, the chairman and the board to get this done.”
Speaking about the new deal, chairman Bill Kenwright added:
“I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone connected with Everton when I say I’m delighted that Seamus has signed this contract extension.
“Since his man-of-the-match performance on his Premier League debut almost 12 years ago, he has displayed all the qualities Evertonians love – skill, passion, determination, and an unrelenting desire to win and to be the best.
“A loyal, universally respected leader who has worn our shirt with pride no less than 350 times and on every single occasion has given his all – just as he does every day in training and when he represents us in the community.
“It takes a lot to become thought of as a legend at Everton – but Seamus is right up there with the very best…and knowing Seamus, I’m sure there’s even more to come…
“Seamus Coleman… True hero…True blue. I’m proud to know him and to be his chairman.”
Though most Everton fans will be pleased with the news, I imagine they will also be hoping the club brings in another right-back this summer.
Like his former full-back-in-crime Leighton Baines, Coleman’s attacking threat is on the decline and at 32 should now be operating as a solid and reliable back-up rather than first choice, with someone of his experience and leadership vitally important in the dressing room.
PSV’s Denzel Dumfries is believed to be firmly on Everton’s radar but financing the deal appears to be an issue, with the Toffees currently constrained by the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
