Ireland rely on Seamus Coleman for Nations League defence

Veteran right‑back Seamus Coleman has been named in the Republic of Ireland’s provisional squad for the opening fixtures of this month’s Nations League, as manager Heimir Hallgrímsson seeks to plug a defensive void after injuries to Nathan Collins and limited options elsewhere.

Defensive needs drive selection

Hallgrímsson’s shortlist reflects the lack of pre‑season preparation for many backs, with the centre‑half position especially thin. The manager has already informed clubs and players of his long list, promising a final squad announcement next Thursday.

Coleman’s club situation and experience

The 38‑year‑old, who turns 38 on 11 October, spent 17 years at Everton before his contract ended last season. He managed just 12 minutes of Premier League action this campaign but featured five times for Ireland during the World Cup qualifying run‑up.

Despite limited club minutes, Coleman remains a regular training presence, a factor Hallgrímsson and the FAI consider sufficient for international duty. He has logged eight appearances and 617 minutes for Ireland between September and June, the sixth‑most of any Irish player in that span.

Hallgrímsson has not ruled the influential defender out, even though he lacks a pre‑season with a new club. Former Everton boss David Moyes hinted at a coaching path, but Coleman prefers to keep playing, hoping a suitable club emerges.

The announcement appeared on a page that listed sections such as GAA, Soccer, LOI, Rugby, Golf, Racing, Upgrade, Subscribe, Sign, Horse, Boxing, Motorsport, Athletics, NFL, NBA, TV, Listings, Quizzes, Live, Blogs, Fixtures, Video, Review, Podcasts, Sport, Weekly, Extra, Dive, Football, Family, See, Advertisement, More, Stories, and credited Byrne/INPHO. It also highlighted the names SEAMUS COLEMAN IS, the FAI and journalist Ryan Byrne.

Hallgrímsson will travel to Southampton’s Championship clash with Swansea City on Tuesday, while the final Ireland squad is expected next week. Coleman’s inclusion hinges on securing regular training at a club, and his future decision is promised “very, very soon”.