Coleman to be eased back to action by Everton
The chances of Séamus Coleman returning to the Ireland team for Stephen Kenny’s final games next month are far from guaranteed after Everton spoke of easing him back to action.
A heavy knee injury sustained has ruled the Ireland and Everton captain out since May and he’s only this week returned to on-pitch training.
Confirming his skipper won’t be available for Saturday’s lunchtime Merseyside derby against Liverpool at Anfield, Toffees boss Sean Dyche was reluctant to estimate a timeframe for his full comeback.
"Séamus is on the grass for the first time with us but he's had one day," said Dyche today when updating his squad news. "But he needs time after a long period out."
Coleman will be eager to make his first Ireland appearance since the March defeat to France when they visit Netherlands on November 18 for the last Euro 2024 qualifiers.
His friend, colleague and fellow 34-year-old James McClean will sign off his international career three days later in the friendly against New Zealand at Aviva Stadium.
That is set to be Kenny’s final game too, for the FAI board meet a week later for a decision on whether to extend his expired contract.
Meanwhile, Dyche insists he "knows what he needs to know" about the club's off-field issues and is comfortable with his position.
This week saw the start of an independent commission into charges the club breached Financial Fair Play regulations by posting financial losses of almost £372million over the previous three years when the limit is £105m.
That is expected to be concluded next week, although a decision may not be made public until November, with suggestions if found guilty the club could face a fine or points deduction.
In addition, further concerns have been raised about the
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