The league season drew to a close with Sunday's victory over Chelsea, but two of Everton's first-team side were in action tonight. Seamus Coleman filled a void in the Irish side created by the enforced absence of Liam Lawrence, playing on the right side of midfield for the Republic in their Carling Nations Cup victory against bitter rivals Northern Ireland.
He was given the curly finger after 54 minutes, by which time his side were four goals to the good. The Irish went on to win 5-0 thanks to goals from Stephen Ward, Robbie Keane (2), Simon Cox and an own goal from Craig Cathcart.
Everton's young player of the season, making his second senior international appearance, was impressive throughout. His display was typical of those that Evertonians have been treated from the young Irishman all season long. His tireless running and energy played a role in two of his side's goals. For the first - Ireland's second - he pressurised a Northern Ireland defender into making a poor backpass, which allowed Robbie Keane to steal the ball and score.
He grabbed an assist for Ireland's third, when his low cross from the byline was flapped at by the 'keeper and Craig Cathcart found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, diverting the ball into his own net.
Trapattoni removed Coleman on 54 minutes to a good ovation from the small crowd in the Aviva Stadium.
Meanwhile, Phil Neville was invited back to Old Trafford to play in a testimonial match in honour of his brother Gary's career, which ended this year. The Manchester United class of '92 was reunited and played a Juventus side that included names such as Marchisio, Chiellini and Del Piero. The match finished in a 2-1 victory for Juventus. Wayne Rooney scored United's goal after 18 minutes, with Pepe drawing Juventus level on 40 and youngster Manuel Giandonato executing a spectacular free-kick to put the Italians ahead on 78.
Our skipper played at left-back, wearing the number three United shirt. The Old Trafford crowd bashed out a few renditions of 'Neville Neville' (to the tune of David Bowie's Rebel Rebel) whilst Phil put in a solid shift in the United defence.
David Beckham, who return to England coincided with a chance to meet the visiting Obamas, was man-of-the-match, pinging 40-yard passes like he was playing Subbuteo.
Phil tried an audacious chip from the edge of the penalty area on 85 minutes, but his effort looped just over the crossbar. Brother Gary, who had been substituted, looked on in disgust. Phil seemed determined to upstage his brother and pulled out some Messi-esque stepovers, but it was all in vain as Juventus prevailed 2-1.
After the event, Phil spoke to Sky, saying "it was a special night. I kept looking over at Gaz and he was struggling - I think he needs to get back in that gym!
When asked about his stepovers, he commented "I got a lot of fans asking me to do that tonight. It was a great night and great to be back. It was a special night for my Mum and my Dad.
"Gary's life is just beginning. He's got a new life with you at Sky now. I just hope he's not covering any games at Goodison Park because either I'll get criticised or he will!"
Brotherly love indeed.
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