Seamus Coleman will finish his playing career with Everton at the end of this season, the club has confirmed.
The Republic of Ireland great joined Everton from Sligo Rovers in January 2009 for £60,000 and has played 433 times for the club, captaining the Toffees 140 times. He holds the club record for most Premier League appearances with 372.
Everton have confirmed Coleman will be offered a coaching role at the club though he has yet to decide if he will opt to continue his playing career elsewhere.
He told evertonfc.com: “After more than 17 years at this great football club, I've decided this season will be my last as a player here.
“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.
“Obviously, after such a big decision, I want to have some time over the summer to focus on what's next for me and my family. My love for Everton is something you all know about – and I've got a huge love for Ireland as well.
“The Club have been unbelievable with me. They've offered me an opportunity to stay on at the Football Club. The manager and staff have been great, and I think with it being such an important decision over my future, I'm going to take a nice, long holiday and look back on what has been an amazing time as an Everton footballer.”