Coleman: Any time I score I go a little bit mad!

It’s been an up-and-down season for Seamus Coleman so far. The Republic of Ireland captain started Marco Silva’s tenure at right back before picking up an injury during international duty that kept him out a few weeks. In between, he’s had some middling-to-mediocre games for Everton that have led to some grumblings of discontent among the the Toffees faithful.

Yesterday however saw the best of the 30-year-old fullback as the Blues dominated Brighton & Hove Albion with Coleman prowling up and down the right wing. And when he scored the second goal, the outpouring of emotion on scoring his first goal since January 2017 was writ clear on his face, as was the gesture of holding his ears at the Gwladys Street end.

“I was out for a year so it makes it (22 months) sound a bit longer! I’m used to scoring goals, I was a little bit disappointed with my last performance and any time I score I go a little bit mad.

“I’m delighted to score the goal and hopefully it’s the first of many this season.

“It was a frustrating time to be out and then you come back and you have a few niggles and, unfortunately, this season I’ve had some niggles as well.

“Thankfully, I’m back on the pitch and the fitter I get the more chances I’m sure I’ll get.”

Brazilian forward Richarlison nabbed the other two goals and Coleman paid tribute to the all the additions to the side.

“I’ve spoken about him a couple of times this season but he’s a top player and he works so, so hard for the team, which is important.

“He’s also got the ability to score goals and that’s been a major plus for us this season. The lads we’ve signed are really, really good people who have fitted into the dressing room so well and we’re delighted with the new signings.”

Coleman was captain today, leading the side out to an emotional Goodison Park remembering the dead from the First World War as well as those who passed away in the tragic accident at Leicester City last weekend.

“Playing in front of our home fans, whoever we’re playing we’re trying to press high, pass forward and play quick football, and we were a little bit disappointed after the Manchester United game so it was important to put it right.

“I thought we did very well. It’s a shame to concede the goal we did to let them back in the game but I thought we controlled most of the game and I think it’s a fair result.

“I think that’s the next step for this group of players - to go to one of these grounds and come back with all three points.

“And why not? They’re doing great so we have a free shot at it.”