'I’m glad I am sitting here still as a Premier League player.'
Seamus Coleman claimed he didn't try to impress any of his managers at Everton more than the other following a video surfaced of Frank Lampard's praising him.
The Republic of Ireland captain was singled out following the Toffees' 3-2 victory against Crystal Palace which confirmed their Premier League safety.
Seamus Coleman discusses the Frank Lampard praise.
Coleman said he'd show the same amount of passion for any manager in charge of Everton, following their win against Patrick Vieira's side which confirmed their Premier League status for next season.
The Donegal native described Frank Lampard's speech as "a lovely moment," which meant a lot to him.
"Listen, it was a tough season for us all, a lot of emotion went into it, all season, and I think a little bit of emotion carried through into that game. Regardless of who my manager is, it’s not changed for me," Coleman told reporters in his pre-match press conference ahead of Ireland's match against Armenia.
"I’ve not tried to impress one more than the other, I just want what’s best for the team, myself, the club, my team-mates, my manager. For a manager like Frank Lampard to say that is obviously a lovely moment, it means a lot."
https://twitter.com/MarkLTighe/status/1527713927496355842
Coleman on last season.
Coleman highlighted the hardship that's involved with being in a relegation battle alongside Leeds United and Burnley.
The 34-year-old was satisfied with Everton's 16th place finish, considering they were in the relegation zone at the start of May.
"I don’t think a lot of people see or understand what goes on behind the scenes, and what you really put into it. From that point of view, it’s nice of him to put it out there, nice for my parents and stuff like that," Coleman added.
"For me, it’s part of my job and I’m happy the season ended like it did. It was a tough season for us all, parents, wife, kids. It was a tough grind. We got what we wanted in the end.
"Not exactly what we are describing as a successful season but when you get stuck in that rut with six weeks to go, we got what we wanted. As a club, we need to learn massively from it, but I’m glad I am sitting here and still a Premier League player, for sure."
Coleman plays four Nations League matches in June over 11 days, following his 30 Premier League appearances last season, which was his highest tally in the Premier League since 2015.
Related links:
