Coleman given hybrid coaching-playing role in Republic of Ireland squad
Seamus Coleman will train with the Republic of Ireland squad in a leadership role rather than as a playing member for the Nations League matches against Austria and Kosovo, while Nathan Collins returns from injury.
Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson has placed Seamus Coleman in what he described as a "hybrid role" for this month's Nations League matches against Austria and Kosovo, with the defender training alongside the players while also supporting the coaching staff in a leadership capacity. Coleman, who has 81 caps, has not played since June and has been without a club since leaving Everton in the summer.
Hallgrimsson said it was "tempting" to name Coleman in the playing squad, citing his performances for Everton despite limited game time as evidence he can still contribute for the national team. The manager added that Coleman has expressed a desire to start playing again and that the camp is intended to help him toward that goal, though Hallgrimsson said the situation will have to be assessed over time.
Captain Nathan Collins is included after missing the opening four League B3 matches with a calf injury. Everton's Mark Travers comes in for the injured goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, while Evan Ferguson, Josh Cullen and Jaden Umah remain unavailable through injury. Harvey Vale returns to the squad, and Hibernian's Owen Elding drops to the under-21s for this window.
Hallgrimsson named a 24-man group for the trip to Austria in Linz and the closing home fixture against Kosovo at the Aviva Stadium. Ireland sit third in League B3 and have won one of their past four games.
Coleman's situation has drawn attention given his recent comments that he is contemplating retirement, contrasted with what Hallgrimsson said is the defender's stated wish to resume playing. Supporters have debated whether the arrangement represents a sensible transition path or a squad place that might otherwise go to a fit player; such views are opinion rather than confirmed fact.
The squad blends established names with less experienced options across defence, midfield and attack as Ireland look to close their Nations League campaign.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
