Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson says he is hopeful Seamus Coleman will return for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, but insists his future is “for him to decide”.
Everton defender Coleman, 36, pulled out of the squad for next month’s friendlies against Senegal and Luxembourg after sustaining a thigh injury.
Coleman managed just five Premier League appearances during the 2024-25 season, but Hallgrimsson believes his captain has a role to play with the national team as they bid to qualify for their first World Cup since 2002.
“He is a leader in this squad and you cannot have his experience in many players,” the Icelander told reporters on Thursday.
“His experience, his leadership skills are one thing, but his quality as a player is another thing as well.
“He’s been playing at the highest level for such a long time, so it’s a shame for me – and, of course the national team – not to have him around. But hopefully there will come another time for him, hopefully it will be just the off-season and he’ll come fit and flying.”
While Coleman’s Everton contract is due to expire this summer, Toffees boss David Moyes has outlined his intention to keep the full-back.
“I know he’s going to be at Everton in whatever role, maybe a little bit more leadership role, but it’s for him to answer if he’s going to continue playing or not,” added Hallgrimsson.
“It’s his decision, but I’m hoping – and I know the Evertonians are hoping – he will continue playing.”
When asked if Coleman – who has 72 Republic of Ireland caps – might announce his international retirement, Hallgrimsson said: “That’s for him to decide, not me.”
