Clinton Morrison couldn’t believe how exposed Everton defender Seamus Coleman was in the UEFA Nations League clash between the Republic of Ireland and England.
England targeted the flanks in their routine win at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday [7 September], leaving the 35-year-old vulnerable in one-on-one situations against Anthony Gordon.
Coleman held his own in his encounters with his former Blues teammate, but Clinton was baffled the defender was made to do lots of work on his own and made his feelings known in his coverage of the match for BBC Radio 5 Live [7 September].
He said: “Republic of Ireland have caused a few problems of their own but to be fair England have been a different class. The Irish wingbacks have been exposed and it is causing all sorts of issues.
“I don’t understand why Seamus Coleman is being left to go one on one with Anthony Gordon. The same with Robbie Brady – Bukayo Saka is causing him issues too. The wide midfielders should be coming back and doubling up in those situations.”
Seamus Coleman hands Everton fresh injury concern
Sean Dyche will now face a fresh injury concern at Goodison Park as Coleman was removed on 57 minutes for Blues teammate Jake O’Brien and looked in discomfort when exiting the pitch.
The right-back had only just returned to match fitness for the Blues and perhaps blame will turn to Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson, whose tactics left Coleman with more defensive work than he’d have liked against Gordon.
Everton will need their veteran defender this season with the side set to face another battle for survival in the Premier League after three consecutive defeats at the start of the campaign.
