STRIFE IS A ROLLER COASTER
Coleman philosophical over horror injury and says he’ll be back better than ever
SEAMUS COLEMAN has vowed to come back even stronger after his horror leg break, insisting: “I’m a fighter.” The Republic of Ireland captain yesterday broke his silence on the sickening Neil Taylor tackle that broke his leg in two places. Coleman spent five nights in a Dublin hospital last month after that 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw with Wales at Aviva Stadium. And after an extended stay with family in his native Donegal, the Everton fullback is back in England to start his rehab. And while Coleman won’t play again this year, he is embracing the challenge of winning back his place for club and country. “I’ve had tough journeys before in the past,” he said. “It hasn’t been a smooth journey to play for Everton and to captain my country. “I’m a fighter and there’s a part of me that’s looking forward to this challenge. It’s something to start all over again and fight for. I’ve started with very small exercises in the gym. I’ve been doing some walking in the pool and aqua-jogging. “It was great to be around my family and friends back home but I’ve been itching to get back. It’s small steps but I’m ready to work. “It’s just good to be back in and around the club and feeling like a professional footballer again. I’m really enjoying it and looking forward to the challenge ahead because it’s going to be tough but I’ve had tough journeys before and this is just another one.” Interviewed by Everton TV, Coleman revealed how touched he was at the messages of support from Toffee fans, Ireland fans, fellow players and managers. But at now stage in the six minute interview did he make any reference to Aston Villa defender Taylor, who did contact Coleman after the shocking incident. Coleman said: “Until something like this happens you don’t always realise how fortunate you are to play for this club and to play for the national team “I can’t emphasise enough the Irish players coming to visit me in hospital for the first few days and then all the messages from the lads back here. “All those well-wishes will get me through this tough period because people have gone out of their way to send cards, to send prayers and it definitely gets you through it.” Coleman inherited the Irish armband from Robbie Keane following the striker’s international retirement last summer. And yesterday Keane urged Coeman to immerse himself in all aspects of club life despite the injury. Keane said: “He’s mentally tough and has the right people around him. “But even being out for six weeks is tough because you just want to go out and play. “When you’re injured, you’re away from people and that’s the hardest part. “As you get experienced and older, you realise that’s not good for you. “The important thing for him is to keep in the mix at Everton and even get over to Ireland and be around the squad when games are on. Mentally that will help.”