It's been an emotional rollercoaster for Seamus Coleman over the past week. He was handed the captain's armband for the Republic of Ireland's group stage clash with Italy and led by example with a towering performance in a famous win, encapsulated by a timeless image of Coleman screaming into James McCarthy's face after the latter made a clearing header.
One thing Coleman has always made clear is how attached he is to his roots. Like Shane Long with Tipperary hurling, the Killybegs native could quite easily have been togging out for his county's footballers against Monaghan on Saturday, had he not been plucked from Sligo Rovers and signed by Everton.
Coleman returned home to a seriously warm welcome in his home town.
Seamie is home ! @BayviewKillybeg @StCatherinesFC @JOEdotie @oceanfmsport @OceanFmIreland pic.twitter.com/h9PN68bHZA
— Pauric Byrne (@dgldj) June 27, 2016
Like all homecomings, there was the inevitable speech. Clearly emotional, Coleman paid tribute to his home town and his pride at being "from Killybegs, from Donegal" while acknowledging that it shows "how far we've come" that the team were bitterly disappointed after being beaten by France. And Coleman acknowledged the important influence of his home GAA club, Killybegs, for instilling in him the same "morals" he holds today.
And if anyone is in any doubt as to whether Coleman still maintains those humble values and the down-to-earth personality that got him to where he is today should take note that the Everton star was still signing autographs for kids at 1.30am last night.
It's exciting times for Coleman, whose spell at Goodison may not be for much longer after an outstanding tournament. Several big clubs, including Manchester United, are rumoured to be chasing the 27-year-old.
But before all that he can let himself reflect on an outstanding campaign personally, and a soaring reputation as one of the best right backs in the world.
