Everton defender Nathan Patterson makes Luis Diaz admission as he faced ‘proper test’
Everton defender Nathan Patterson has suggested that the duel against Liverpool winger Luis Diaz was the best he has played against so far.
The Toffees drew 0-0 against Liverpool on 3 September where Patterson was outstanding during the game.
He kept Diaz quiet throughout the game and the performance was highly praised by fans and pundits.
“It’s brilliant because at a young age I’m getting to challenge myself on a regular basis,” said Patterson to Mail Sport, as relayed by Daily Record.
“What a league this is. The best I’ve played against so far is probably Diaz in the Liverpool game at Goodison. That was a proper test and I felt I did well.”
Bright future
Patterson joined the Toffees from Rangers during the January transfer window, signed by Rafael Benitez.
The 21-year-old picked up an ankle injury and missed the remainder of the season.
He was given the chance to make an impact after Seamus Coleman got injured at the start of the season. Patterson grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
The youngster looked solid at the back and equally brilliant going forward. He is good at tackling and making clearances, and he has got bright future ahead of him.
Having said that, Patterson needs to improve, especially in attacking areas. He is good at taking the ball to the opposition half but needs to do better with decision-making.
However, there is one area that is really frustrating about Patterson – he has picked up this bad habit of picking up freakish injuries.
Lampard needs him to be playing regularly without disruptions. Hopefully, he can stay fit for the rest of the season, and produce more quality performances for the Toffees.