Everton right-back Seamus Coleman sustains slight thigh strain

Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny has announced that Everton right-back Seamus Coleman has sustained a slight thigh strain.

The 34-year-old is currently on international duty but he missed Wednesday’s friendly against Latvia.

Ireland face France in their European Championship qualifier on Monday and could be without the Toffees star.

Coleman has been a key player for Everton this term and they cannot afford to be without him.

The veteran defender has scored once in 20 league games this term.

Everton are 15th in the Premier League after 28 games, but just two points separate them from the drop zone.

They resume action on April 3 with a game against Tottenham Hotspur.

The Goodison Park club will hope to have Coleman available for the game.

Manager Sean Dyche needs one of his most experienced defenders around for the crucial run-in.

Everton are not safe yet, and the relegation battle this term is expected to stretch until the last day of the campaign.

A slight thigh strain does not look like a serious injury. However, Ireland may need to send Coleman back to his club for further treatment.

They could do with his experience and quality against France. They last played at the European Championship in 2016.

They missed out on Euro 2020 after losing their play-off tie against Slovakia.

The Republic of Ireland also failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and will be eager to start their Euro 2024 qualifiers on an impressive note.

A win or draw against the French in front of their home fans will go a long way.

It remains to be seen whether they will risk the Everton hero for the game or whether he will be fit.