Seamus Coleman has been hailed as “the ultimate professional” - and his absence from Everton’s recent games is hurting their chances of staying up.
That’s the verdict of Coleman’s former international pal Shay Given.
The Toffees face high-flying Newcastle United on Thursday night and they need a win to climb out of the bottom-three.
Coleman hasn’t played since the 2-0 defeat to Manchester United, when he picked up a hamstring injury.
Everton boss Sean Dyche said earlier this week that Coleman was making good progress in his recovery. However, the Toon clash will come too soon for the 34-year-old.
Given told LeoVegas: “Seamus is such a crucial player for Everton both on and off the pitch – he’s definitely been a big miss.
“His personality means a lot to the team in the changing room, not just his ability on the pitch, particularly with the situation the side finds itself in at the moment.
“When you’re in a relegation scrap, you can’t afford to take your foot off the gas.
“Sean Dyche has done a good job to come in and steady the ship, but Everton are down there for a reason and recent weeks have shown why.
“Of course Coleman is a big miss, but Dyche and his squad can’t look for excuses, they have to grind out results and do what’s right to get a good result against Newcastle.
“He’s the ultimate professional for club and country. He does everything by the book and prepares so well.
“Whenever a new player joins the Everton or Irish setup, he makes them feel so welcome; he asks about their family and their life and tries to make them settle into the club.
“It’s that personal touch he brings – he’s a very down to earth guy and is really good to have around the place.”
Coleman showed his worth in Ireland’s recent Euro 2024 qualifier against France, when he helped keep Kylian Mbappe quiet, despite his struggles in the build-up for fitness.
“His personality on the pitch is one of his biggest assets,” Given added.
““I remember him playing a few weeks ago against France having hardly trained, and he ended up having one of his best games in an Ireland shirt against Kylian Mbappe.
“That just showed his character and his willingness to put his body on the line for his country, and he’s done the same for Everton for so many years.
“I always hear since I left the Irish squad what a brilliant captain he is as well from all the new players that have joined the setup, and I’m sure it’s the same at Everton as well.
“He’s a big character to have in the changing room and any team would miss his presence in these crucial games towards the end of the season.”
READ NEXT:
Padraig Harrington chasing more major title glory after rediscovering his mental edge
Shamrock Rovers to offer Jack Byrne new contract after fending off MLS interest
Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett on Conor McGregor v Michael Chandler
- James Lowe out of Leinster's Heineken Cup semi-final clash with Toulouse
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
