Former Republic of Ireland striker Simon Cox believes that Seamus Coleman deserves a new Everton contract

Seamus Coleman is 35 years old and plays as a right-back for Everton & Republic of Ireland. Coleman joined Everton in 2009 and his contract expires in June. “I think Everton are notorious for keeping people for longevity and Seamus embodies what playing for Everton is about”, said Cox. Coleman has made 70 caps for Republic of Ireland which includes starting recent friendlies against Belgium & Switzerland and his leadership will be important in Everton’s Premier League relegation battle. “Seamus never wanted to lose, always wanted to be successful and wasn’t shy from voicing an opinion”. Said Cox.

Stephen Kenny’s contract as Republic of Ireland manager came to an end in November 2023 and John O’ Shea was appointed as interim manager for recent friendlies against Belgium & Switzerland. “John is young enough, he’s got fresh and he has been thought by Sir Alex Ferguson for a long period of time”, said former Republic of Ireland striker. Lee Carsley made 40 Republic of Ireland caps as a player and was in the running for a long time to be Kenny’s successor. “It surprises me that Lee ruled himself out of that because he would of done really well due to the success he had with England U21s”, said Cox. The Football Association of Ireland were planning to announce the next permanent manager this week but is now delayed due to Chief Executive Jonathan Hill stepping down.

Cox’s former club Nottingham Forest are currently 17th in the Premier League table and only one point ahead of 18th placed Luton Town. “It depends if they get hit with penalty points for financial fair play and it will be touch & go”. The Premier League title race is as exciting as the relegation battle with Manchester City top on 73 points and Arsenal & Liverpool two points behind on 71. “I would love Liverpool to win the Premier League, I don’t think they will win it and I can’t see past Manchester City as they have too much firepower”, said Cox.