Seamus Coleman "really looking forward" to making Republic of Ireland return

Republic of Ireland full-back Seamus Coleman has admitted that he cannot wait to return to international action following nearly a year out injured.

The 29-year-old suffered what was considered a potentially career-ending injury against Wales last March in a challenge with Neil Taylor.

Coleman has worked his way back to fitness with club side Everton, though, impressing in his five outings since making a comeback against Leicester City on January 31.

Ireland's skipper is now relishing the chance to put on the green shirt again when his side take on Turkey in Antalya on Saturday evening, nearly a year to the day since breaking his leg in two places.

"I'm really looking forward to the game. Everyone knows what that Irish shirt means to me and I'm looking forward to getting back into it," he told reporters. "It never crossed my mind from day one or anyway through that I wouldn't get back.

"I knew if I did everything I was told as well as the work in the gym that I'd get back. I've been back for the last five or six games with Everton and felt good, and I hope to do the same in an Irish shirt."

Former Sligo Rovers and Blackpool defender Coleman has won 43 caps for Ireland since making his debut in 2011.