Nathan Patterson international display is concern for Sean Dyche ahead of Everton v Liverpool
Nathan Patterson had a torrid time in the Scotland defence against France as he was torn apart by Kylian Mbappe before being dragged off, and his performance will be worrying for Sean Dyche as Everton prepare for the Merseyside derby.
Patterson’s side took the lead in the game but were quickly pegged back by France, with Mbappe providing the main outlet for his side on the left-hand side, where he was running at the Everton defender.
His display saw him leave the field in the 89th minute, and his struggles against the pace and close control of Mbappe could prove telling as he prepares to face Luis Diaz on Saturday.
Diaz has proved in recent games to be Jurgen Klopp’s first choice on the left flank, having started the last three league games against Brighton, Tottenham and West Ham, and his tendency to run with the ball could be a problem for Everton’s defence.
Against Brighton, Diaz attempted four dribbles and drew two fouls, while partaking in 17 ground duels both in and out of possession as he looked to get the better of his man. Against Tottenham, the dribbles sank to three but he drew four fouls, and in the West Ham clash he boasted a 75% dribble success rate. [Sofascore]
Patterson, however, struggled hugely against Mbappe when the Frenchman was on the ball, as he was dribbled past five times and had just a 38% success rate in ground duels, losing possession nine times. [Sofascore]
If he replicates this performance at Anfield on Saturday, it could see all sorts of trouble caused down his flank and could cost the game for Dyche’s side.
He will need to learn and pick up quickly from his disappointing display if he wants to help his side pull off a shock result in the derby.
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