Seamus Coleman has confirmed he will bring the curtain down on his remarkable playing career at Everton when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The veteran defender will leave as one of the most respected figures in the club's modern history after spending more than 17 years on Merseyside.
Coleman, 37, has been offered the opportunity to remain with Everton in a coaching capacity, though he says he will take time over the summer before deciding on the next chapter of his career.
The Republic of Ireland international joined Everton from Sligo Rovers in January 2009 for just £60,000, a fee that has long been regarded as one of the best bargains in Premier League history.
From those modest beginnings, Coleman established himself as a cornerstone of the side and was appointed club captain in 2019.
Last year, he overtook Tim Howard to become Everton's all-time Premier League appearance holder, and his tally in the competition now stands at 372 matches, with 22 goals and 24 assists.
In an emotional statement, Coleman announced that the current campaign will be his final one as an Everton player.
Seamus Coleman has confirmed he will bring the curtain down on his remarkable playing career at Everton when his contract expires at the end of the season
|PA
"After more than 17 years at this great football club, I've decided this season will be my last as a player here," he said.
His farewell at the Hill Dickinson Stadium is expected to come when Everton host Sunderland on Sunday.
Injuries have limited Coleman's involvement in recent seasons, with the right-back making only three Premier League appearances during the current campaign.
Seamus Coleman has been offered the chance to stay at Everton as a coach
|PA
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Five facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWSShould he feature against Sunderland, he will move above club legends Dixie Dean and Leon Osman into ninth place on Everton's all-time appearances list, with 434 matches in all competitions.
Coleman has already begun preparing for life after retirement, having earned his UEFA B coaching licence.
Last year, following the departure of Sean Dyche, he briefly helped take charge of the first team alongside former team-mate Leighton Baines for an FA Cup tie against Peterborough United.
Coleman has captained Everton 140 times and paid an emotional tribute to the supporters.
Seamus Coleman pictured playing for Everton in 2009
|PA
"I want to thank the fans for their unbelievable support," he said.
"You've helped me in more ways than you could imagine."
"I live in the city and see you all daily, and I've taken your love of the football club into the dressing room to explain to the lads how much Everton means to the people.
"Thank you for making me a better captain and team-mate. It's an incredible football club with incredible people."