Coleman: Richarlison ‘a proper Everton player’

For years, whenever a Toffee has been asked what epitomizes an Everton player, most minds will inevitably go towards Seamus Coleman. Equal parts talent, effort and grit, the Irishman’s fighting spirit and leadership is what we ask of the players in royal blue.

While we’ve all been waxing lyrical about Everton’s new signing, Brazilian winger Richarlison, since he first pulled on the Everton jersey against Blackburn in preseason, when Coleman speaks up about him it is time to pay attention because that is high praise indeed.

“I was not surprised by his performance. I do not want to put too much pressure on him but he is a great lad. He does all the stuff you need to do going forward.

“But he digs in, too, and is a proper team player. I am very excited by him. He is a proper Everton player.”

On this opening weekend away at Wolverhampton, he served notice to the rest of the Premier League of his quality which we only saw flashes of last season when he was with Watford FC.

Coleman for his part was also regaled by the over 3,000 traveling supporters, especially in the first half when he lined up right in front of them. This is the 29-year-old’s tenth season with the Blues, and Saturday marked his 260th game for the Blues.

Despite being a man down, Everton continued to show attacking endeavour in the second half and had a number of chances to seal the win. This was no coincidence explained Coleman, who is relishing new manager Marco Silva’s reliance on the flanks for creating chances.

“I am really enjoying playing the manager’s style of football. It is not what you would imagine, just bombing on. You have to bomb on at the right time. If one goes, one stays.

“It is great that he is very encouraging. I have really enjoyed working with him and we are hoping for a very successful season.

“And on Saturday, I thought we battled hard to stay in the game and get the point.”

With club captain Phil Jagielka suspended for the home opener this coming weekend, it will be a huge surprise if the Blues are led out by any one else but Coleman against Southampton at Goodison Park. He’s Everton him.