Coleman in ‘hybrid role’ with Republic of Ireland

Seamus Coleman will train with the Republic of Ireland squad in a hybrid role, supporting the coaching staff while providing leadership to the players. Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson said Coleman wants to return to playing, and the arrangement is intended to encourage him, though his inclusion in the match squad remains uncertain.

The 38-year-old has 81 caps, has not played since June and is without a club after leaving Everton in the summer; he has also been considering retirement. Ireland named a 24-man squad for Nations League matches away to Austria and at home to Kosovo, with captain Nathan Collins returning and several injured players unavailable. Ireland sit third in League B3 and have won one of their past four matches.