Everton stalwart Seamus Coleman has announced he will end his 17-year playing career with the club at the end of this season.
The right-back joined the Toffees for just £60,000 from Sligo Rovers in 2009 and has gone on to make a club-record 372 appearances in the Premier League, including 140 as captain.
The 37-year-old could move up to ninth in the club’s list of all-time appearance makers, ahead of Dixie Dean and Leon Osman, if he plays in his final home match for the club against Sunderland on Sunday, taking his tally up to 434.
Seamus Coleman hints at future plans as Everton decision announced
“After more than 17 years at this great football club, I’ve decided this season will be my last as a player here,” Coleman told the official Everton website.
Although Donegal man will no longer be playing for Everton, he could be playing elsewhere next season if he chooses not to take up a coaching role at the Merseyside outfit. He also hinted that he wants to continue playing for the Republic of Ireland national team.
Coleman added: “Obviously, after such a big decision, I want to have some time over the summer to focus on what’s next for me and my family. My love for Everton is something you all know about – and I’ve got a huge love for Ireland as well.
“The club have been unbelievable with me. They’ve offered me an opportunity to stay on at the club. The manager and staff have been great, and I think with it being such an important decision over my future, I’m going to take a nice, long holiday and look back on what has been an amazing time as an Everton footballer.”
