Coleman had a long playing career, mainly in non-league football for Kirkby Town, Burscough, Marine, Southport, Runcorn F.C.
At the time of his departure to Rochdale, Coleman was the third longest serving manager in England, behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger.
On 24 January 2012, Coleman and his assistant Jimmy Bell were appointed by Rochdale to replace Steve Eyre, who had left the club the previous month.
[12] At the time of his departure, he was the longest-serving manager purely in the EFL having been in charge for 9 years and 6 months.
[12] On 5 January 2025, Coleman was appointed manager of League Two side Gillingham on a short-term contract until the end of the season.