Nathan Patterson
Nathan Patterson, the 24-year-old Everton and Scotland defender, has expressed his determination to secure more playing time at Everton despite recent challenges. Patterson, who has been plagued by injuries this season, recently showcased his skills in Scotland’s international friendlies, aiming to translate that form into more opportunities at the club level.
Nathan Patterson said: “We just kind of speak and he [international manager, Steve Clarke] says I need to try and get as many games as I can and all that. But I can only do what I can do, train well, and when I get the opportunities, do well. And I’ve done that this season. I can only focus on myself. I can’t worry just now. I’ve got to go back to club level and hopefully I can play as many games as I possibly can. Of course, it’s nice to get back on the pitch again, get some minutes under my belt, and I felt really good.”
Patterson’s struggle for consistent minutes at Everton has been highlighted by the club’s ongoing issues at right back. Despite his promising performances during a selection crisis around the festive season, where he contributed to victories over Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa, as well as a draw with Leeds United, he has found himself sidelined in favor of other players. Everton’s pursuit of Kenny Tete last summer, which ultimately fell through, underscores the club’s efforts to bolster the right-back position.
Nathan Patterson added: “It was a nice experience. It was good to hear some of our fans here as well. It was nice to have a home feel. The boys were asking me during the week what it’s like, and everyone was really surprised and taken aback by how good the facilities were, and yeah, that’s what we get every week, so it’s nice for everyone else to see it. It was positive. It’s good to get on the pitch and get two more caps, reaching, I think it was 25, so I’m delighted with that. It was obviously nice to get on.”
Patterson’s recent appearances for Scotland, including a start against Japan and a substitute appearance against Ivory Coast at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, provided a vital platform for him to gain match fitness and confidence. These international outings have reinforced his readiness to compete for a spot in David Moyes’ squad, as he looks to overcome his injury setbacks and prove his worth at the club level.
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