Everton defender Seamus Coleman needs to raise his game
Everton defender Seamus Coleman needs to raise his game after Nathan Patterson appears to have impressed Frank Lampard heavily.
Patterson joined in the January transfer window from Rangers but failed to get into the senior side at the Merseyside club, and his season was over but it started after he picked up a long-term injury.
This season, it’s a different story. Patterson has been superb and he has started in all the league games at right-back, including the Merseyside derby clash against Liverpool.
“What a start to the season,” said Lampard, as quoted by The Daily Mail (4 September).
“Pats was injured when he was about to make his debut last year, and his defensive game has been excellent.
“There were quite a lot more question marks being asked of the full backs and centre halves, but they have both done great, and are both young players so they are going to get better.”
Coleman has been a symbol of excellence for the club all these years, and he was the first name on the team sheet till last season.
The veteran defender brings quality, experience and leadership qualities to the side.
However, his position at the club is now under threat.
This season, he has made just one League Cup appearance so far, and he is yet to feature in the Premier League. The message is clear.
Patterson brings energy to the side. He is strong defensively and shows great concentration and composure.
At 20, he still has got physical strength to match Premier League forwards. But most importantly, he is a fabulous player to watch going forward.
He is courageous, doesn’t hesitate to make runs in the box, and is equally good with his deliveries.
Coleman has a contract at the club until 2023. Lampard will want him to stay beyond that, but he needs to raise his game. At the moment, he is serving as a back-up for Patterson.