Coleman sets tone for resurgent Irish before Prague play-off

Coleman urged the Republic of Ireland to rise to the occasion in Thursday's World Cup play-off [Getty Images] On the eve of the Republic of Ireland's biggest match in years, there was no better man than Seamus Coleman to set the emotional tone. While he has passed the captain's armband to Nathan Collins, Coleman remains the beating heart of the national team 15 years on from his debut. Now 37, what he lacks in speed he makes up for in knowledge and the emotional intelligence needed to meet the moment.

That much was evident four months ago. Starved of first-team action at Everton and left out by Heimir Hallgrimsson in September, he rolled back the years with two spirited displays to help the Republic of Ireland beat Portugal and Hungary in November and set up Thursday's World Cup play-off against the Czech Republic. Coleman's international career has featured the high of captaining his country to a Euro 2016 win over Italy and the low of a horrific injury against Wales the following year.

He considers the Republic of Ireland's Troy Parrott-inspired 3-2 win in Budapest a highlight, but when he spoke to reporters at Fortuna Arena on Wednesday, he knew to emphasise the future as the squad bid to end the country's 24-year wait for a World Cup return. "Yeah [Budapest was a highlight], but ultimately it has to count for something as well," he said. "It was great at the time and memories that people will keep forever but it has to count for something, and that is starting tomorrow.

"Listen, when you put on the green shirt, you are representing your people and it is an emotional occasion. We have enough tough days as well so [it is] important to soak in those good days. " Republic of Ireland not dwelling on past hurt - Coleman 'He can do everything' - Parrott carries Irish hopes Vale always felt 'connected' to Republic of Ireland Coleman has always had a strong bond with the Irish supporters and knew to highlight the role they will play on Thursday.