Heimir Hallgrimsson hoping Seamus Coleman will continue on to Euro 2028

Seamus Coleman of Republic of Ireland waves to supporters as he leaves the pitch. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

Heimir Hallgrimsson has expressed the hope that Seamus Coleman will stay on and feature for the Republic of Ireland at the ‘home’ European Championships in 2028 – and as a player rather than a coach.

And assistant manager John O’Shea has confirmed that he intends to sign a new contract to remain on with Heimir Hallgrimsson’s team in the wake of the recent World Cup qualifying campaign.

Coleman is 37 now and approaching the last few months of his time with Everton and with his manager there, David Moyes, suggesting that the veteran could have a role at the Merseyside club in the backroom staff.

The Donegal man was replaced just after the hour during Ireland’s 0-0 friendly and received a standing ovation from the crowd of just under 40,000 who would have feared that this was the last time they would see him in a green shirt.

Hallgrimsson, speaking to TV after the game, said that he had had “a good talk” with Coleman, had shared his hope that the player would continue for some time yet, but said that any decision would be connected to what happened with his club situation.

“It is his decision what he is going to do but we hope he will stay on and play with us next season and hopefully for the Euros played in Ireland,” the Ireland manager said subsequently. “That would be fantastic for him, if he would play in the finals.” 

The answer was emphatic when asked if he would like Coleman involved as a coach.

“I would like to have him as a player.”

Hallgrimsson is already signed on through to the next European Championships in 2028 having agreed a new deal with the FAI prior to last week’s World Cup playoff semi-final defeat to Czechia on penalties.

He explained at the time his hope that his staff, including assistants O’Shea and Paddy McCarthy, would continue down that road with him. O’Shea at least appears to be of a mind to do just that.

“Hopefully,” said the Waterford man after the North Macedonia stalemate at the Aviva Stadium. “It’s a conversation to have now over the next few days, but hopefully it can get sorted. Get it sorted soon.”