Seamus Coleman was hailed by departing winger Yannick Bolasie as he shared encouraging WhatsApp messages sent by the Everton captain.
Bolasie found himself frozen out under boss Carlo Ancelotti at Goodison Park and the former Crystal Palace star secured a loan move to Middlesbrough yesterday.
The 31-year-old took to Twitter this morning to praise Coleman and gave fans an insight into the Ireland and Everton skipper's captaincy style.
Bolasie has struggled to hit top form since suffering a serious knee injury four years ago.
Coleman - who knows all about battling back from injury - had positive words for the DR Congo international.
Alongside screenshots of a WhatsApp conversation with Coleman, Bolasie tweeted: "Will always be my guy Captain & Friend, this is what we spoke about in October & it’s never stopped...I believe in myself but when my teammates do as well it always gives you a different drive #ThankYouCapo"
Coleman wrote: "Hi mate. I'm sorry you're not training with us.
"Your attitude and application in training was amazing and you were on it every day and it was hard but enjoyable for me to be up against you every day! You make me better and prepare me for wingers at the weekend!
"Never lose your attitude and football can change quickly."
The Donegal native went on to wish Bolasie well as he drops down a tier in search of playing time.
He added: "I will always be watching and supporting you with interest! Nothing has changed you're the same player as you always were! Keep going."
