Jagielka hopes Coleman leads Everton out at new stadium

Former Everton skipper Phil Jagielka would love to see current captain Seamus Coleman lead the Toffees out when they move into their new stadium in 2025.

Republic of Ireland captain Coleman, 35, this month signed a new one-year deal to play a 16th season with Everton, the last in which they will play at Goodison Park before moving to their new home at Bramley Moore Dock.

Jagielka believes the Donegal man has played a huge role in helping Everton through the struggles of recent years – not least last season’s double points deduction – and reckons the chance to appear at their new home would be the perfect reward.

“He’s been a massive part of the glue that has kept this club together,” said Jagielka, who was speaking as he trained with Everton Amputee FC, who will be playing in the FA Disability Cup finals.

“When times are tough off the pitch you need people in and around the changing room that have to take it on the chin and galvanise the team.

“He’s had to do that. The squad has had a big turnaround. He’s got to be the guy that leads it. He’s got people that help him but he’s the face of it.

“He still performs on the pitch – that’s the be all and end all to get a new deal. But it’s also the things he’s done behind closed doors.

“For me, he deserves to be that person leading Everton out into the new stadium. That would be a lovely cherry on the cake for him. He’s dedicated a lot of his life and his career to Everton and hopefully he gets to do that.”

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