Donegal soccer star Séamus Coleman has signed a new deal with his beloved Everton.
The Killybegs man, who will turn 36 in October, will almost certainly finish his career in the top flight at Goodison Park.
The veteran will enter his sixteenth season in the Premiership against many players half his age.
Coleman famously signed from Sligo Rovers in 2009 and has never looked back making 364 Premier League appearances.
A delighted Coleman confirmed he has put pen to paper on a new deal with the Toffees.
“Everyone knows what Everton means to me, and I’m very proud and honoured to sign a new contract and to keep playing for this special club in the best league in the world,” Coleman told evertontv.
“I give it my all for the football club and I’m just really happy to extend my time here. I’m going to cherish and enjoy every moment. It’s hard to believe it’s going to be our last season at Goodison, such a special place to me and every Evertonian. Of course, I want to be part of that.
“I still feel I can do a job for this football club on and off the pitch. This being our last season at Goodison is a nice way to go into the campaign, but I wouldn’t have signed the contract if I didn’t feel capable of contributing to the team.
“I’ve just played two matches for my country. I feel good and I want to help the lads on the pitch. I’m still enjoying it so what better place to do that than at the club you love? I think the manager steadied that ship massively last season with our performances. I just want to be part of that and to continue to be a part of this football club,” he added.
“I’m creeping up on some Everton legends and it’s great company to be in if I can get into the top-10 player appearances. It will be a proud achievement for someone who initially just wanted to come over here and make a first-team appearance. I’m just really looking forward to joining up with the squad and doing all I can again for Everton.”
Manager Sean Dyche is pleased to have the 35-year-old signed up for next season.
He said “From the day I became Everton manager, Seamus has been a great example to his teammates and staff on what it means to play for the club. He is a model professional and helps set standards, and his leadership is rightly admired by everyone.
“His vast experience and know-how on the pitch will continue to be valuable qualities for us in the season ahead.”
