Nathan Patterson in line for Everton disappointment vs Man United after David Moyes update
Nathan Patterson would have been relishing the potential opportunity to start against Manchester United, following Jake O’Brien’s red card against Bournemouth.
The Irishman is currently suspended as the Toffees host the Red Devils at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday evening.
O’Brien, despite being a natural centre-back, has been trusted to play on the wide right of defence for much of this season so far.
Meanwhile, Patterson has found his chances few and far between, struggling to make a real imprint on David Moyes’ plans.
The upcoming clash against Michael Carrick’s side was looking primed to be another chance for the Scottish defender in L3.
However, the latest team news ahead of the game could now put that into doubt.
Seamus Coleman’s return casts doubt on Patterson’s involvement vs Man United
With O’Brien’s red card, it looked like Patterson would be Moyes’ only option to start at right-back.
While James Garner has deputised in that position on a few occasions, his presence in the midfield is much more important for the Toffees.
It meant that all signs had led to Patterson being given the nod. However, after the Everton manager’s latest comments about Seamus Coleman’s availability, Patterson’s involvement may not be as guaranteed as expected.
Ahead of facing Manchester United, Moyes stated “Seamus is fit and available as well”, with only Jack Grealish ruled out among his options.
It now gives the Blues boss more to think about, and Patterson could now find himself on the bench once more, with history showing Coleman’s chances could be higher than the 24-year-old’s.
Will Moyes trust Coleman over Patterson?
In the last fixture between Everton and Man United, Coleman was given the nod to start at right-back, even with O’Brien being available.
While the Toffees did go on to win that match 1-0 at Old Trafford, the Irishman was forced off within just 10 minutes due to injury.
However, the show of faith against an opposition that boasts a plethora of attacking talent was a statement in itself.
If Moyes heads into Monday night’s game with a similar tactical blueprint, he may very well choose to put Coleman straight back into the action.
With a place in Europe on the line, it would not be a surprise to see the Toffees boss turn to players he currently trusts more.
In that instance, Patterson would certainly be in line for a major disappointment, as his chances of a start had looked increasingly likely in the build-up to the game.
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