O’Neill backs Everton boss

Martin O’ Neill has backed Roberto Martinez’ assertion that Seamus Coleman will not be leaving Everton, after reports suggested the Irish full-back could be bound for Old Trafford.

“I think that Everton would be disappointed with that and I think the manager’s gone yesterday to try to defuse all those things,” said O’Neill. “I think Seamus is pretty content at the moment with how he’s doing but also what he’s doing and who he’s doing it for – Everton.

“They’ve given him that opportunity and you would have to say that, for the foreseeable future, you can only see him getting stronger at Everton. He’s been absolutely superb for them and you’re hoping when the big games come around for us, he’s perfectly fit.”