Seamus Coleman admits it was a ‘tough year’ to reach his Everton comeback.
Coleman led David Moyes’ side out at Hill Dickinson Stadium for the first time in Wednesday’s routine Carabao Cup second round victory over Mansfield Town.
The Republic of Ireland international completed his first 90 minutes of game time since the beginning of the previous campaign after several injury-related issues.
He also became the second player in the Blues’ history to clock up 17 consecutive seasons, joining legendary goalkeeper Neville Southall in the accomplishment.
But Coleman admits that his latest round of rehabilitation required a change in approach by taking on the advise dispensed by the club’s medical team more.
He said:”It’s been a tough year really, to be honest.
“I was in plenty of squads, but in and out which was frustrating.
“Maybe I took a step back myself and maybe put myself first a little bit in the last rehab and stopped kind of maybe rushing things when maybe I shouldn’t, you know, actually listen to the physios for a change.
“I feel good, I got through 90 minutes [against Mansfield]. I’m not getting any younger, but I felt good and you know, thanked the physios for helping me get back to that point.
“Hopefully the lads keep doing what they’re doing on the pitch and my main goal is stay available and help the team when I can and if needed.
“You just want to play, you’re hungry to play. There was times where we were needed and we needed to help.
“But it’s just in your makeup as well. It got to the point where I needed to probably think of myself. As I said, the physios were great with me.
“I didn’t push them this time. I waited, I was patient, and listened to the plans.
“It was frustrating at times because I wanted to be back quicker, but listened and I’m thankfully I’ve had a good few weeks training and felt good out there.”
Coleman featured in a strong Everton line-up against the Stags which included several automatic starters and marquee summer loan signing Jack Grealish.
And the veteran captain believes that the club’s diehard fanbase are long overdue a taste of silverware after a 30-year drought since they last lifted a major trophy.
“Do you know what, they deserve it,” added Coleman.
“I’m not saying that to get them on side. I’ve no need to try and get the Evertonians on side. But they absolutely deserve it.
“They’re crying out for a trip to Wembley and let’s see what happens down there.
“Thankfully we’ve got a manager as well who’s not just happy to stay up or happy to win a game. He’s pushing us and it’s the way he’s speaking to us.
“The way he speaks and what he says is just constantly getting in the lad’s minds that this is a big football club and he’s not coming [back] here to finish 17th.
“You can see that by the quality of players who were signing as well. So hopefully better times ahead and hopefully a cup run.
“But again, you’ve got to earn the right every time you play.”