'Embodies the Everton spirit' - praise from across the Merseyside divide

Coleman's attitude, fiery and competitive and with natural leadership qualities, has also been a touchstone over his years at the club.

And Coleman's selfless approach on and off the field even drew praise from Everton's greatest rivals Liverpool, as partisanship was set to one side to acknowledge his standing within the game.

Coleman was handed a public tribute from then Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp after he suffered a double leg break after a tackle by Wales' Neil Taylor when playing for the Republic Of Ireland in March 2017.

Klopp wrote in his programme notes before a Merseyside derby shortly afterwards: "I would like to pass on my regards and best wishes to Seamus Coleman, who due to very unfortunate circumstances is not available to play today.

"I do not know him personally, but as a football supporter I love his character, his positive approach to the game and his commitment to his club.

"There is a lot to admire about this player and it is his personal qualities that will help him as he recovers from this setback and returns to the game."

A year later, Klopp praised Coleman for making a 5,000 Euro donation to a fund-raising appeal for Liverpool fan Sean Cox, who was badly injured when he was attacked before a Champions League semi-final against Roma at Anfield.

Klopp wrote: "I'd like to start these notes by thanking Seamus Coleman for the solidarity he has shown in supporting Sean Cox as he continues his long road to recovery from the injury he so tragically sustained while visiting Liverpool from Ireland to support our club in a football match.

"I know Seamus embodies the Everton spirit of wanting to beat LFC on the pitch as much as any player they have, but his actions in looking to help the Cox family demonstrates what the best qualities of this rivalry are."

It is at Everton, of course, where Coleman will never be forgotten for his efforts on and off the pitch, taking interim charge as manager alongside long-time team-mate Leighton Baines for an FA Cup tie against Peterborough in early 2025 after Sean Dyche had been sacked.

He was made club captain in 2019, leading Everton out 140 times.

Coleman may yet be back at Everton - the offer of a coaching position is on the table -but even if he decides not to return, he will be remembered as one of the club's greatest servants and deserves the emotional farewell he is sure to receive when they face Sunderland in their final home game of the season on Sunday.