SEAMUS COLEMAN says he ‘couldn’t stand up straight’ following an incident today that led to his withdrawal in Everton’s draw with Manchester United.
Early in the second half, Coleman was involved in an incident with United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who seemed to connect to the Killybegs man’s head with his boot.
Coleman had skipped past the Swede with the ball. Ibrahimovic pulled Coleman back and the pair fell awkwardly with Coleman receiving a blow to the head as they tangled.
Gary Neville, Sky Sports’ co-commentator said: “It’s naughty, very naughty. He’s fortunate to get away with that.”
There is now speculation that Ibrahimovic could face a retrospective suspension.
A late Leighton Baines penalty earned Everton a draw after Ibrahimovic put United in front.
Coleman was replaced by Mason Holgate a quarter-of-an-hour after the incident having initially played on.
“I’m not one to come off,” he told Newstalk.
“I don’t know the ins and outs of the injury yet. It’s feeling much better now, after the game. I couldn’t stand up straight and I couldn’t run really, so it was a cause of using your head.
“There’s no point being brave and not being fit to play to your full potential, especially against a team like that, because you could be at fault for a goal. Your bravery would end up being stupid.”
[adrotate group=”81″]The 1-1 draw means Everton have won only once in their last nine games and their Champions League aspirations are slipping.
Coleman said: “I’m 28. I make no secret of it that if I end my career having not played Champions League football I’ll be disappointed. It’s something that I want.
“We got a good manager here now. He’s going to need time to get his stamp on things. Hopefully at some stage in my career, I’ll be able to play Champions League football.”
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