Everton captain Seamus Coleman made a surprise early exit during the team’s Goodison Park farewell.
The Irish defender, who has a massive 427 appearances for the Toffees, led the team out for the last game at their iconic stadium, but only lasted 17 minutes of the clash against Southampton.
TNTHe then jogged off seemingly in good nick, even down the tunnel[/caption]
Coleman received a standing ovation as he traded places with Ashley Young, but didn’t seem to have much wrong with himself as he jogged off the pitch and was filmed heading straight down the tunnel.
Responding to the scenes, talkSPORT commentator Andy Townsend said: “I don’t know if that was pre-planned or not, I didn’t see Seamus pick up a knock.
“Maybe because of his injury problems he’s just not really got the required fitness levels in his legs.
“Maybe David Moyes was desperate to give him that amazing send-off there that he just got from the Goodison faithful, that was lovely, wonderful.”
Lead commentator Nigel Adderley continued: “Well, he handed the armband on to Jordan Pickford and Seamus Coleman has played his final football at Goodison Park.
“David Moyes is an old softie, who would have thought it?”
Townsend added: “I think that’s great, I really do. There are certain games and only a very very limited few where you can pay your respects to someone who’s given heart and soul and sweat blood for the club
“No one has done that more than Seamus Coleman.”
The 36-year-old is a modern day legend at Goodison, having joined in 2009 from Sligo Rovers for just £60,000.
Named club captain in 2019, taking the armband from Phil Jagielka, few know Goodison like Coleman who is 13th in all-time appearances for the storied club.
Also top in Premier League appearances for the Toffees, it was only fitting that he got to say goodbye to the stadium despite an injury-hit season that’s seen just six matches.
Everton will leave Goodison, their home since 1892, after today’s game and move to a new venue at Bramley Moore Dock.
Iliman Ndiaye looks to have made sure a party is guaranteed, scoring twice in the first-half for a 2-0 lead against the league’s bottom side.
As for Coleman, it seems he won’t be saying goodbye to the club itself, given what Moyes has previously said.
“Seamus will stay next season, without doubt,” the veteran Scot said.
“One way or the other, Seamus will be here certainly next season.”
