Age is not a barrier for Everton to retain their great player.

During his tenure at Everton Football Club, Seamus Coleman has faced numerous challenges, of which a handful of major injuries have just been a part. The 35-year-old fullback, who recently reaffirmed that he doesn’t consider himself among the greats to have worn the royal blue shirt until he wins a trophy with the Blues, has twice in a row witnessed the shame of this team having to ensure Premier League survival well into May.

The Irishman has been playing for the Everton Under-21s lately as he gradually regains his full health after a knee injury that necessitated surgery at the end of the previous season.

Following the club captain’s 1-0 victory over League Two Mansfield Town in the Football League Trophy yesterday night, Paul Tait, the youth manager, showered the captain with accolades.

He serves as an example. What he’s accomplished at Everton and in the game. We were fortunate enough to have him for a few training sessions as well as the game on Saturday.

“It’s the expectations he sets and his genuine passion for the game.” Spending time with him and observing his level of commitment and preparation is invaluable for our boys. The experience of having him here has been amazing.

Coleman’s leadership and cunning were the clear differences that everyone could notice.

He was confined to the touchline at one point early on, and no teammate could provide him with a way out. Playing the ball off a Mansfield player and getting a throw-in to regroup and restart with guys in space would have likely been the easiest thing to do. Rather of going for the return, Seamus “Cruyff-turned” to get outside his opponent and sent the ball inside to young Jenson Metcalfe.