Seamus Coleman admitted he was overcome with emotion after scoring the winner in Everton's 3-1 win over Brighton at Goodison Park this afternoon.
After a lengthy injury lay-off, the Donegal native has made a successful return to club football and put behind him the most challenging period of his career.
Speaking to reporters after today's game, he explained that he found it difficult to contain himself following his goal.
"It's been a while since I scored a goal, obviously I missed about a year with a leg break," he said. "Part of my game is scoring goals and I was delighted to get my first goal back here at Everton.
"When I score I always tend to lose my head, I can't help it. I was delighted to score. First goal since the leg break so there was quite a bit of emotion about it."
The Republic of Ireland captain also confronted the fact that he had received criticism from some pundits for his performances for both club and country, but insisted he's turned a corner in recent weeks.
"You know in your career you get some stick and I was getting stick. My emotion comes out and that's just the way it is.
"I'm the first to admit that the performances weren't where they needed to be recently. Today I wanted to go out and prove a point.
"In the two games that I've had, I've got my fitness back. I felt a lot fitter today. I'm delighted to score. I hope it's the first of many this year."
Seamus Coleman celebrates in front of the home fans after scoring the winner for Everton at Goodison Park. Image: Dave Thompson/EMPICS Sport
The 30-year-old also acknowledged his celebration, which included a kiss to the Everton badge, and thanked fans again for their support of him as he returned from the sidelines.
"The reception I got here in January when I got back from a broken leg is something that will stay with me for a long, long time.
"Let's not forget that that was amazing and that shows what the fans mean and I mean to the fans."
On the team's performance, he added: "They were great today, they played positive football and I think we're really gelling now.
"We've got some top players - Richarlison is a really good lad and a great talent. Works really hard for the team and when he gets the chance he scores."
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
