SEAMUS COLEMAN

Coleman is a right-back and has represented the Republic of Ireland both at Under-21 and Under-23 level, making his international debut for the Under-21s in a friendly against Sweden in 2008.

He began as a central midfielder before switching to full-back.

Coleman signed for Sligo Rovers in 2006 having begun his career at hometown side Killybegs.

The Donegal-born full-back signed for the Blues at the end of the January transfer window in 2009, having had reported interest from Celtic, Birmingham City, and Ipswich Town.

Coleman linked up with Andy Holden and Alan Stubbs in the Blues’ reserve team squad, but by the time the 2009/10 season came around he was on the fringes of the first team squad.

But he was dealt a major blow in pre-season when a freak foot infection threatened his career. Coleman battled back though, and was handed a senior start in, of all places, the Stadium of Light in Benfica.

He then played at Bolton and AEK Athens before turning in a fabulous performance on his home debut, setting up two goals against Tottenham in December 2009.

He remained on the fringes of the first team squad before moving to Blackpool on loan in March 2010.

During his time at Bloomfield Road, Coleman helped Blackpool to win promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs.

Coleman made 12 appearances for Ian Holloway’s side and played in every minute of their play-off victories over Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City.

He signed a new three-year contract days before play-off final glory.

He saw plenty of action in 2010/11, scoring a first Everton goal at Brentford in the Carling Cup and a subsequent first Premier League start at Fulham four days later.

Ironically Coleman’s first Premier League goal came against Blackpool in November 2010. Playing on the right of midfield the Irishman netted in the 2-2 draw at Bloomfield Road.

He continued in excellent form and signed a new four-and-a-half year deal in January 2011.

In February 2011 Coleman’s excellent performances for his Club were rewarded with his first cap for the Republic of Ireland.

Coleman started the 3-0 Carling Nations Cup win over Wales and played for 59 minutes before being replaced by Keith Fahey.

His rapid development was confirmed at the end of the season when he was shortlisted for the PFA Young Player of the Season prize and was named as Everton’s outstanding young performer.

Coleman suffered an ankle ligament injury on the eve of the 2011/12 campaign and missed the start of the season.

But he returned not long into the season and continued to be a valuable squad member.