SEAMUS COLEMAN has again been handed the Republic of Ireland captaincy for this afternoon’s round of 16 clash against hosts France at Euro 2016.
At the Stade de Lyon today, Ireland take on France with a place at the quarter-finals at stake.
Martin O’Neill has retained the same eleven that played on Wednesday in the 1-0 win over Italy in Lille.
Then, Coleman delivered a rousing captain’s display on a night when Robbie Brady’s late goal put the Boys in Green through.
[adrotate group=”66″]Coleman set the tone with a shuddering tackle on Mateo De Sciglio in the opening minute and players have spoken about the usually-quiet Killybegs man’s influence.
Irish assistant manager Roy Keane also told of his delight at Coleman’s leadership.
“I can’t speak highly enough of Seamus,” said Keane, himself a real warrior in the green.
“We’re lucky to have him. I know he’s at a good club like Everton but Seamus Coleman could play for any of the big teams, he could do that with his eyes shut.
[adrotate group=”70”]“He’s a great lad around the place and he’s got a nice way about him. And when he was the captain the other night, you just knew he wouldn’t let us down.
“He leads in a different way, different captains bring different stuff to the party, but he leads by example. He’s a relaxed kid and he’s certainly not on an ego trip.
[adrotate group=”38″]“You’re not supposed to be on an ego trip when you’re captain. Strangely enough, I’m not sure what went on in the huddle but apparently he said some pretty good stuff which is good to hear.”
This is Ireland’s biggest game since they lost on penalties to Spain in the round of 16 at the 2002 World Cup in Suwon.
26 years ago yesterday, Packie Bonner proved the hero of the hour in the last 16 at the 1990 World Cup with a penalty save from Romania’s Daniel Timofte that put Ireland into the quarter-finals.
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