Seamus Coleman takes on new Republic of Ireland role as Everton legend ponders his playing future

Coleman, 38 and a free agent since leaving Everton, will join Ireland's Nations League camp in a hybrid playing and coaching role as manager Hallgrimsson aims to help extend his career.

Seamus Coleman has been given a new hybrid role within the Republic of Ireland set-up by manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, who is attempting to help extend the veteran defender's playing career. The 38-year-old has been a free agent since departing Everton at the end of last season and has previously spoken about the possibility of retirement.

Coleman was not named in Ireland's 24-man squad for this month's Nations League fixtures against Austria and Kosovo, but Hallgrimsson announced he would join the camp in a dual capacity. Coleman will train with the players while also working in a leadership and supportive role with the coaching staff. "Hopefully that will get him to start playing again," Hallgrimsson said. "That's our aim, to try to push him to continue playing. He has expressed that he wants to do that."

Ireland travel to Linz on November 14 before hosting Kosovo three days later. Two wins could secure promotion to League A, while a single point may be enough for a play-off spot in their bid to position themselves for European Championship qualification.