Who Should Everton Look to Bring in to Replace Seamus Coleman?

Seamus Coleman recently signed a contract extension keeping him at Everton until the summer of 2023, but Rafael Benitez needs to start preparing for life at Goodison Park without the club legend already. Not only will the Spaniard be forced to decide on a new captain to lead the team, but he will also need to bring in a right-back capable of dominating games in the same way the Irishman has done for all these years.

Coleman a Club Legend

Coleman is the longest-serving player at Everton by some margin, with 303 Premier League appearances under his belt for the club already. Throughout that time, he has racked up 20 goals and 30 assists, while also being one of the most adroit at tracking back in the league. Roberto Martinez said that the player was one of the best fullbacks in the world, and Ashley Williams stated that Coleman was one of the greatest players he has ever played with.

Coleman is notorious for his work rate and ability to lead by example, along with being highly adept with the ball at his feet. Unfortunately, though, at 33 years of age, the long-term Toffee has passed the peak of his powers and is now in the twilight of his career. Benitez needs to bring in a skilled player that can learn from Coleman and take over the mantle on the right-hand flank.

Players Will Want to Play Under Benitez

With Benitez regarded as one of the finest managers in the world, there is a strong chance that Everton will be able to sign a top player to replace Coleman. Whatever happens, this season shouldn’t have too much of an impact on that, although it would help to be able to offer European football. At the time of writing, the chances of that look slim, though.

According to the football betting odds, Everton are currently priced at 8/1 odds to finish in the top six this term. Under the Spaniard, fans had hoped that the club would be able to push. The prolonged absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin has had a hugely detrimental effect on the side, though, and the Toffees were unable to ride the momentum generated by the strong start they enjoyed under their new manager.

Potential Targets for Summer 2022

Although Coleman’s contract runs until the summer of 2023, it would be wise to bring in a top-quality addition in the position next summer. There are a few players in the Premier League who could fit the bill and may want a move to a bigger club. For example, Tariq Lamptey of Brighton & Hove Albion is one of the standout options. His industry is reminiscent of Coleman’s, and he is exceptionally skilled when attacking. Matty Cash is another highly-rated talent, who could be a realistic target for Everton.

With Coleman’s career winding down, the sad day when Everton fans will have to say goodbye to the club legend is rapidly approaching. However, with Benitez at the helm, fans should have faith that the experienced tactician will be able to identify the perfect replacement.