Seamus' Verdict On New Everton Leaders

Seamus Coleman is confident Everton have the right blend of leaders to set the standards at “a massive football club” now he has passed on the captain’s armband.

After more than 17 years with the Blues, Coleman has called time on his playing days at the Club he has served with such distinction.

Signing from Sligo Rovers for a famed bargain fee of £60,000 in January 2009, the defender ended with 435 appearances for the Toffees, placing him 10^th on the Club’s all-time list.

It wasn’t just Coleman’s contribution on the pitch that made such an impact, however. Appointed Men’s captain in August 2019 – while also skippering the Republic of Ireland – his leadership, professionalism and values he set drew unanimous praise from teammates, coaches and managers he worked alongside.

Heralded by many as vital to keeping Everton in the Premier League during recent turbulent times, Coleman has often spoken about understanding the basic standards required by the Club and its passionate fanbase.

And even though he will no longer be leading the dressing room, the 37-year-old has full faith there are plenty of Toffees teammates to pick up the baton.

“It’s important that, as you move on, the standards are passed on and we’ve got that,” Coleman told evertontv. “We’ve got Jordan [Pickford], Tarky [Tarkowski], [James] Garner and Kiernan [Dewsbury-Hall], among others. So there's so many of them stepping up into that role.

“It's important they keep relaying that message and it's important they get to know the fanbase. It's important the fanbase keep pushing them because, ultimately, as I’ve said so many times, it's a massive football club. And we're fortunate to be here and we have to wear that shirt with pride.”

Ahead of his last-ever appearance in an Everton shirt in the Premier League season finale at Tottenham, Coleman was recognised for his service by being given the prestigious Howard Kendall honour at the Club’s end of season awards.

Bestowed to individuals for outstanding contributions and exceptional loyalty to the Blues, Coleman received his award from Kendall’s wife, Lily, and his former Toffees teammate Leon Osman – before being handed the familiar Everton Football Club' sign that adorned the tunnel at Goodison Park as a gift.

“It’s a huge award,” Coleman said. “We all know Howard Kendall is an Everton legend and his wife is a lovely lady so I’m very, very honoured to get that award.

“For me to pick that up is massive and I enjoyed speaking about my time at the Club on stage.”

On the Goodison sign, a typically-modest Coleman added: “I didn't want to say on stage. Like, I'm very honoured to be the one to take that away. Me being me, I think it could have went to a few other people but, listen, it’s incredible. Incredible.”