Seamus Coleman starts surprise new ‘hybrid’ role after Everton retirement update

Former Everton defender Seamus Coleman has joined the Republic of Ireland squad in a new hybrid role combining player training and coaching. Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson revealed that Coleman will participate in sessions with players while taking on supportive leadership duties alongside the coaching staff for matches against Austria and Kosovo. Coleman has been without a club since his 17-year Everton career concluded at the end of last season.

Hallgrimsson explained that the arrangement is designed to encourage Coleman to continue his playing career and potentially add to his 81 international caps. Coleman recently acknowledged that while he has kept fit, he is edging toward announcing his retirement from professional soccer.