This lad will go far.
The long-time Ireland captain bowed out, last night, but there is little fear about the man set to replace him.
Seamus Coleman was an inspiration for Ireland during Euro 2016, through his words and deeds. He is roughly the same age Robbie Keane was when he was handed the armband and asked to lead a nation.
That’s the heartening thing though – we know he wants it and we know he can do it.
Coleman missed the 4-0 friendly win over Oman but has been with the Ireland squad all week.
One of the unseen sides of being a senior player for your country is dealing with the supporters, whether it be at games, training sessions, team hotels, airports or even on those odd few hours off.
Eoin Keating is a proud Irish fan that went above and beyond for his father’s 80th birthday. Having requested a painting of Wes Hoolahan doing his wondrous thing in a green jersey, Eoin headed along to the Irish team hotel. He was hoping to get Hoolahan to put his signature to it.
He happened upon Coleman and the future Irish captain said he would do his best.
His best was to get the entire squad to sign the framed picture, including boss Martin O’Neill.
Cheers @BarryMasterson got it all signed up and ready for my Dad's 80th. Great work pic.twitter.com/b1Aq5jtL6F
— E0IN (@KeatingEoin) August 30, 2016
Coleman’s gesture makes a brilliant picture all the better.
I went to team hotel. Seamus Coleman was an absolute gent and got it signed for me
— E0IN (@KeatingEoin) August 31, 2016
Fair play.
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