Allardyce confirms Coleman injury not related to broken leg

Matt Stead

Everton defender Seamus Coleman has a thigh injury but it is not related to the leg break he has just returned from, Sam Allardyce has confirmed.

The Republic of Ireland international was making just his second appearance in nine months against Crystal Palace on Saturday, but did not return after half-time.

“Seamus has a (thigh) muscle injury and will have a scan tomorrow,” Allardyce said. “It is not related to the broken leg he suffered.”

Allardyce was also shocked to hear boos for Morgan Schneiderlin when he came on, adding: “Surprised, very surprised. Lots of players haven’t played up to their potential this season.

“We have to look at our own record and that is where the mainstay of our season lies. In the eight home games I have been here, we have picked up 17 points and conceded just four goals, we are getting it right, entertaining the fans and getting the result. The unfortunate away form is causing us the problems.

“Goodison Park has always been a strong place to play, the supporters get behind you. Away from home it has been a longstanding problem. It is something we have to try and turn around.

“Now we can relax and enjoy the result. We got 3-0 up and the pressure was off. Even when they scored their penalty, we were not under too much pressure. We will do some sunshine training now because we are not in the FA Cup.

“The Everton fans will wake up and be happy to see where we are, only two points off seventh. We are nearly safe and can get the planning done for next season, we can start penciling some things in.

“I was apprehensive today after being done 5-1 away from home but the players have responded magnificently. We have shown what we can do and hopefully we can improve for the rest of the season. Our next way game is Watford so we will be looking to get something from there.”