Everton defender Nathan Patterson expected to miss six weeks after vexatious injury
Everton defender Nathan Patterson is set to see a specialist on Tuesday, with an initial diagnosis indicating that he could be out for six weeks, according to The Times journalist Paul Joyce.
The 20-year-old has been a shining light in Frank Lampard’s new-look backline this campaign, starring in every possible game so far for the Toffees.
Early tests indicate the youngster hasn’t suffered major damage, nevertheless, he will miss key games in a jam-packed fixture schedule before the FIFA World Cup takes place.
Patterson sustained the injury whilst on international duty for Scotland and was stretchered off in the country’s 3-0 win over Ukraine.
This seems to be a standard occurrence with international breaks causing injuries to key players; an infuriating time for an injury to happen.
Patterson has already suffered one major injury setback since moving to Merseyside from Rangers last January and hopefully, this one will be longer than six weeks.
Six weeks from now will be Monday, 7 November. On the Tuesday that week, Everton play Bournemouth in the Carabao Cup before another clash with the Cherries on the Saturday (12 November).
If Patterson is a week late from returning, he’ll miss both of those games and Everton then won’t play again until 26 December due to the World Cup.
Patterson’s injury will allow Everton veteran Seamus Coleman the chance to regain a spot in the starting XI; something the veteran will have to take with both hands.
Coleman will be the likely starter at the Blues in their trip to Saint Mary’s on Saturday afternoon; a safe bet, but it’s frustrating given Patterson’s perfect form.
The youngster has been a genuine star for Everton this season and a shining light in everything Lampard’s progressive side have done well.
Hopefully, this will be a mere blip in the Scotland international’s season; he’ll get an extra break whilst the World Cup is taking place to come back firing on all cylinders.
Nevertheless, he will be a massive miss over the hectic Premier League schedule that will now be taking place, his youthful exuberance would’ve been nice utilise.
We have our fingers and toes crossed for you Nathan, we are all craving a speedy recovery for you.