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Coleman calls time on Everton career after 17 years

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Everton have announced Seamus Coleman will leave the club after 17 years, following the expiry of his contract this summer.

Coleman joined the Toffees from Sligo Rovers in 2009 for just £60,000, and was signed by current Everton boss David Moyes.

The right-back has made 433 appearances for the club, with 372 of those coming in the Premier League, the most of any Everton player.

If he features in what would be his last home game for the club this Sunday, against Sunderland, Coleman will move up to 10th in Everton's all-time appearance list.

Coleman has contributed with 28 goals and 27 assists and worn the armband 140 times for Everton, who have offered the 37-year-old a coaching role if he decides to retire.

“After more than 17 years at this great football club, I've decided this season will be my last as a player here," Coleman told the club website.

“I want to thank the fans for their unbelievable support. You've helped me in more ways than you could imagine. I've always tried my best to put Everton Football Club first and you all mean the world to me.

"I live in the city – I see you all daily – and I’ve taken your love of the football club back into the dressing room to explain to the lads how much Everton means to the people.

“I also thank my managers, teammates and all the staff at Everton. They've seen me happy, sad, angry, emotional, but the greater cause has always been Everton Football Club.

"Thank you for making me a better captain and teammate. It’s an incredible football club with incredible people.

"Coming over here as a 20-year-old from Sligo Rovers to a reserve team, I was just hoping to impress enough to get on the bench.

"To think I've gone on to make the most Premier League appearances for Everton and to become captain of this great football club – it was beyond my wildest dreams."