When Everton fans Eoin Mulligan and Francis Conmy missed out on a much anticipated trip to watch their beloved side in the Europa League, they may have wondered when they would get another chance to visit Goodison Park.

However the trip is back on, thanks to the generosity of one of their Toffees idols, right back Seamus Coleman.

Mulligan and Conmy, both from Athlone in Ireland, became friends when the latter - who has Asperger's Syndrome - became a regular at fast food restaurant Supermac's, where the former works.

Everton defender Seamus Coleman has paid for two fans to attend a game at Goodison Park

Everton fans Eoin Mulligan (right) and Francis Conmy missed out when the latter fell ill

However Coleman has donated £1,800 to get Conmy - who has Asperger's - over to Liverpool

Mulligan's boss arranged a surprise trip for the pair to travel to watch Everton play Hadjuk Split on Thursday night, however the plans fell through when Conmy became ill after they arrived in Liverpool, meaning they missed the 2-0 win.

After his friend's illness, Mulligan set up a Gofundme page to try and raise €1,500 - around £1,350 - to pay for another pair of tickets and travel.

However this target was smashed on Sunday evening when Ireland captain Coleman donated €2,000 - around £1,800 - so they could make their dream trip.

Coleman left a note along with his donation, saying: 'Sorry you couldn't make it to the game Francis. I hope you're feeling better now.

'Hopefully this helps get you and Eoin your flights and accommodation for another game and I'm sure the club will look after you as always.'

Mulligan called Coleman, the Ireland captain, a 'modern day hero' for his act of generosity

The pair are hoping to fly over to watch Everton's next Premier League home game against Tottenham Hotspur, and to thank Coleman personally.

Mulligan wrote on Facebook: 'I am literally speechless. Not only is Seamus an inspiration to thousands of people across Ireland but he is also one of Francis' favourite players of all time.

'The fact that someone of Seamus stature could reach out like this and help someone says a lot about his character. These last few days have proved to me the world is a lot brighter of a place than we think.

'I only hope we can meet in person so I can show you how much this has meant to me. You are a modern-day hero. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.'

Mulligan said all the surplus donations would be given to Aspire, which helps people with Asperger's in Ireland.