Bit O'Red welcome Premier League side to Showgrounds

Sligo Rovers will play an eye-catching friendly fixture in the Showgrounds this coming Friday, July 19, at 4pm.

The 'Bit O'Red', who have defeated Shamrock Rovers, Derry City and Bohemians in their last three league outings, host English Premier League side Everton as the Merseyside club begin preparations for the new campaign.

The fixture will see Republic of Ireland and Everton captain Seamus Coleman return to the pitch that catapulted the defender in earning a £60,000 move to the Toffees in 2009.

The defender, capped 72 times by his country, has racked up over 350 top-flight appearances for his club.

Sean Dyche's side, who finished in 15th position in the league last season, will be put through their paces in an Ireland-based training camp ahead of the 2024/25 season start date in August.

This friendly encounter will also strengthen the strategic partnership between the two clubs since its announcement in 2021.

Speaking ahead of the game, Coleman said: “It will be a huge honour for me to return to Sligo Rovers with Everton for our opening pre-season friendly of the summer.

“Sligo is a club I hold close to my heart, with them putting their faith in me as a young player which eventually led to my move to Everton.

“I still have many friends at Sligo and it's been great to see the close bond between the two clubs strengthen over the years. Going back there after more than 15 special years as an Evertonian will mean a lot to my family and me."

Tickets were snapped very quickly upon release earlier this month - making the encounter a sell-out.

Meanwhile, two days later (Sunday, July 21), Rovers begin their FAI Cup journey when John Russell’s team welcome Munster Senior League outfit Cobh Wanderers to the Showgrounds.