Credit: Imago

Dr Rajpal Brar

Mon 7 April 2025 8:10, UK

Everton defender Nathan Patterson is now in better shape post his injury after playing against Arsenal, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.

The injury expert claims that the 75 minutes he played on Saturday afternoon is part of the plan for the Toffees to get him back to full fitness.

The Blues played out a 1-1 draw against the Gunners on 5 April, with the Scotland international playing at left-back.

Patterson not at 100 per cent ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Everton next take on Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on 12 April in the Premier League.

While Patterson played close to the full game, he’s not yet expected to be back to full fitness.

Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, Dr Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and a Sports Scientist, said about Patterson: “Patterson played against Arsenal and that’s part of the team getting him back to full fitness and he does seem to be in better shape.

“How long will be determined on a game by game basis depending on match state specifics, intensity, and how he responds to those minutes.

“He still is not at full fitness and might need another couple of games to get there.“

Everton must give Patterson as much time as he needs to recover

Patterson was back after a two-month injury layoff, a significant step following his absence since early February.

However, expecting him to instantly regain his peak form right away is unrealistic, given his injury issues earlier in the season as well.

Rustiness is inevitable, as Dr Brar eluded to, and he’ll need a run of games to rebuild sharpness and confidence.

Rushing him back risks re-injury or burnout, especially with Everton likely mid-table and nothing tangible left to fight for this season – no relegation battle or European push by late spring.

Patience makes sense here: let Patterson ease in, regain his rhythm, and prime himself for a strong 2025-26 campaign under David Moyes.