Everton boost as highly rated Nathan Patterson’s return is imminent
Everton are likely to have Nathan Patterson available for the start of their pre-season preparations after Scotland boss Steve Clarke confirmed his return is ‘imminent’.
The youngster signed from Rangers in January for a reported £12.8million but is yet to make his Everton debut.
The 20-year-old was called up to the Scotland squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifying playoff fixtures and Clarke believes he could feature at some point.
As quoted by the Independent [23 May], Clarke said: “His [Patterson] return to play is imminent and it will just come down to match fitness.
“I would put him down as doubtful for the Ukraine game.”
No worries at right back
Having forked out a sizable fee for Patterson in January, Frank Lampard should be looking to utilise the highly-rated 20-year-old in his plans next season.
Lampard has frequently used a back three formation for the Toffees in his time in charge and Patterson provides him with flexibility on the right-hand side of the defence.
Furthermore, it will allow Lampard to forget about strengthening the right-back position as he has plenty of options available to him.
That money could be utilised elsewhere, where the Toffees really need it.
Patterson shouldn’t have any issues stepping up to the level required considering his performances for Scotland and his consistent selection for the national side.
Although the season has only just finished, attention must quickly turn to this summer and a large overhaul of players at Goodison Park.
For too long Everton’s lacklustre recruitment has caused them no end of problems and if they fail to rectify it this summer, the Toffees could be in a very similar position next season.
In other Everton news, The Blues are set for a multi-million pound windfall after recent major developments, according to a report.
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