‘A Star In The Making’ – Everton’s Seamus Coleman

Possibly the only positive thing about Everton’s injury crisis is that it has given some of their younger players an opportunity to shine. Jack Rodwell has earned rave reviews for his recent performances but another youngster who has been making a name for himself is Seamus Coleman.

Coleman only joined Everton last January in a deal worth £150k but his career at Everton did not start very well. During a tour of the United States, Coleman suffered a career-threatening injury as he suffered severe reaction to a blister. The infection could have had catastrophic conditions for the young Irishman but he was fortunate enough to get through it. After this injury scare Coleman made his first appearance for Everton in the Europa League against Benfica. The match was an unmitigated disaster for both Everton and Coleman as they lost 5-0. Coleman was led a merry dance by flamboyant winger Angel Di Maria and his Everton career was in danger of finishing before it had even started.

Injuries to Everton’s defenders led to Coleman being named on the bench for the game against Tottenham recently; an early knock for Joseph Yobo meant the young right-back was given another opportunity to shine, and this time he made no mistakes. Everton were 2-0 down going into the last 15 minutes before some inspirational play from Coleman turned the tide. The 21-year-old had been brought on to be solid defensively but going forward he was the difference-maker. His energy and enthusiasm was no match for a lacklustre Gareth Bale and it soon became clear that he had the beating of the Welshman. Coleman charged forward and crossed well to create Everton’s first goal before a similar move resulted in Cahill’s equaliser. His high-energy performance earned him the man-of-the-match award and it was well deserved.

Coleman won praise from both his manager and teammates for his performance. It is still too early to say whether he has a long-term future in the Premier League but if he builds on his fine performance against Spurs, then David Moyes may have a real gem in his hands.