Danny Murphy blown away by Everton defender Nathan Patterson
Danny Murphy has showered heaps of praise on Everton defender Nathan Patterson after the Toffees earned a 0-0 draw against Liverpool.
In an eventful Merseyside derby at Goodison Park (3 September), the Toffees matched Liverpool toe-to-toe, with Jordan Pickford making some fantastic saves.
However, it was young Patterson who impressed Murphy with his agility, strength, courage, determination, and quality. Murphy has hailed him as a “diamond”.
“He was sensational,” said Murphy on BBC Match of the Day (3 September).
“This young lad, Nathan Patterson, he seems to have a lot. He is only 20, came in January. Physically very good, but composed as well.
“Early in the game, he has set on his mark showing the fans what he is about. Do you have the composure in the big games to play forward through the lines and pick nice passes? Yes, he did.
“He has the desire to get forward and have an impact on the game, which is great. His defensive work is good. you can see the strength and determination to keep the ball under pressure. He really looked established.
“I think the fans are going to love him, the way he bumps forward. He is a diamond and they have produced a good player, got themselves a good player in the market. He is a terrific young lad.”
More to come
Patterson came to Everton in the January transfer window, where the Toffees did pay a lot of money for him.
He was seen as one of the rising stars at Rangers, and he is a regular member of the Scotland national team as well.
Last season, he failed to make an impact, as Frank Lampard kept faith on Seamus Coleman, while the player picked up a lengthy injury as well.
This season, he has been simply outstanding for the Toffees. He has got bundles of energy. He loves to drive forward and is equally good at picking passes.
The youngster is physically very good and displayed a great concentration level as he kept his cool in the box to take the ball away from Luis Diaz towards the end.
He is only 20, and will only be going to get better. He made five tackles, one interception and one clearance and played out seven long balls against the Reds, as per WhoScored.