I'm a Fighter!

Seamus Coleman has thanked supporters of Everton, Ireland and from around the world for helping to “get [him] through” his injury nightmare, while vowing, “I’m a fighter, I’ve had tough journeys before” and insisting he will be back as strong as ever.

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The defender returned this week to USM Finch Farm to begin the early stages of rehabilitation after suffering a double leg break while captaining the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup qualifier against Wales in Dublin on 25 March.

The affection for the popular 28-year-old was highlighted by the thousands of messages received from around the world to offer support and wish him well in his recovery.

In his first interview since breaking his leg, Coleman revealed how that backing – including help from Everton and Ireland staff– was crucial in getting him through a “tough period”, while serving as a timely reminder of the “great and special Club” he plays for.

“It’s great to be back, it’s nice to see everyone again – it’s like my first day all over again,” said the right-back.

“Obviously, I’d rather be fit and well but I’ve had a good month at home in Ireland to get my head around everything and now I’m ready to get back to work.

“I’m not on social media. It was tempting to go back on to thank everyone but I thought I’d wait to come back here to do the interview and just to say thank you for the support I’ve had from the two management teams, the doctors, surgeons and all the fans back home and here.

“Until something like this happens you don’t always realise how fortunate you are to play for this Club, to play for the national team and to have all that support behind me.