Heartwarming moments as record-breaker Coleman makes history for the Toffees

’60 grand Seamus Coleman’ made Everton history at the weekend with the most ever appearances by any player.

Evertonians celebrated the Captain and defender at Goodison on Sunday as he made his 355th appearance for the Toffees against Aston Villa.

The Killybegs man made his debut on 6th December 2009, famously joining from Sligo Rovers for just £60,000.

Fans made a heartwarming gesture to Coleman yesterday, unfurling a massive banner with the message “15 Years of Seamus” and an Irish flag alongside the Everton crest.

He was also presented with a commemorative signed shirt to mark the occasion which beats Goalkeeper Tim Howard’s record of 354 matches.

Everton manager Sean Dyche paid tribute to Coleman after the game, which finished a draw, and said: “It was a big day for him – deservedly so – and I’m pleased for him we got some kind of result as it would not have been an enjoyable moment for him.”

Meanwhile, Roy Keane hailed Coleman as a “fighter” and spoke of a “few rows” they had in their time playing for the Republic of Ireland national team.

“What I like about players is if I have a go at them and tell them they should be doing something, Seamus had a go back at me once, he obviously regretted it,” said the Sky Sports pundit.

“But I like that, people talk about characters, he is a great lad, but that doesn’t mean to say he is not a winner and he is not up for the challenge. You don’t play at that level with the injuries he has had unless you are a fighter.”