Coleman in 'hybrid role' with Republic of Ireland

Coleman, without a club since leaving Everton, will train with the squad in a leadership role rather than play in the Nations League matches against Austria and Kosovo.

Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson has announced a 24-man squad for Nations League matches against Austria and Kosovo this month, with a special arrangement for captain Seamus Coleman.

Coleman, 38, has been without a club since departing Everton in the summer and has not played since June. Rather than include him as an active player, Hallgrimsson has given him what he termed a "hybrid role"—training with the squad and providing leadership and support to the coaching staff. Hallgrimsson said it was "tempting" to select Coleman for the matches themselves, noting that "how he did after not playing much for Everton makes us believe he can always do well for the national team."

Coleman has recently indicated he is contemplating retirement but has also expressed a desire to "start playing again," and Hallgrimsson said the aim is to continue pushing him toward a return to action. Captain Nathan Collins returns after missing the opening four League B3 matches with a calf injury. Everton goalkeeper Mark Travers replaces the injured Gavin Bazanu. Evan Ferguson, Josh Cullen and Jaden Umah remain sidelined.