Seamus Coleman has revealed he is thinking about extending his Everton stay.
Coleman will complete his 16th season at Goodison Park in this week’s Premier League finale with Arsenal ahead of his current deal contract expiring next month.
Initial talks have already taken place with the Republic of Ireland international over a new contract, having agreed a 12-month extension with the Blues last summer.
And Coleman, Everton’s record Premier League appearance holder,, admits that he will take time to consider the option of prolonging his playing time on Merseyside.
He said: “The club means everything to me. I suppose I live and breathe it like everyone else.
“It’s been a hell of a ride – the last two or three years – and it’s not a case that you just turn up for work, go home and forget about it.
“You live and breathe it, and it’s been tough. But I absolutely love this football club, I love this stadium.
“We’ve got another year here at Goodison, so I’m happy to have been offered something and I’ll have a think.
“This football club means everything to me and, as I said before when I signed my last contract, it is hard to walk away from something you love.”
The Everton captain also paid tribute to supporters for their role in the club’s successful battle against relegation, sealed with several games of the season to spare.
“The last couple of weeks, we’ve been safe, but without the support this year and without the togetherness in the group – from players to the manager – it’s not to be underestimated what this group has done this season,” added Coleman.
“Two points deductions – never heard of before. Everyone was writing us off. We’ve seen it all; all the noise.
“The group, to be fair, stuck together. I know we can test the patience of the fans at times, but this is a group I’m proud to be a part of for the way we responded to what has been a tough couple of years.
“Listen, for me, they’re the best fans in the world. Of course, they are and through good and good, they’re such a passionate fanbase.
“There’s absolutely no getting away from the fact these supporters have played a massive part in us staying up.”