Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 21 May 2026 10:10, UK

Nathan Patterson’s inclusion in Scotland’s World Cup squad may come as a surprise based on his limited minutes at Everton.

Despite the Toffees crying out for a natural right-sided fullback, the former Rangers ace has not quite succeeded on Merseyside.

Manager David Moyes has often preferred to use players such as Jake O’Brien and James Garner on the wide right of defence.

In truth, those are telling clues into how Patterson is rated by fellow countryman Moyes.

Ahead of Everton’s summer window, Patterson is sure to seek an exit elsewhere as he looks for more minutes, and the World Cup has arrived at the perfect time.

How Nathan Patterson can put himself in transfer shop window

With everyone watching, the World Cup is an excellent time for players to make a name for themselves as clubs look to invest in the right departments.

It is how former Everton star James Rodriguez secured his move to Real Madrid in 2014. Now, this is by no means comparing Patterson with the Colombian.

However, it goes to show that a strong tournament can ultimately change the course of your career, and Patterson stands at a crossroads.

The fullback will no doubt have suitors as things stand, but at which level is yet to be determined. If he performs well for Scotland, his options will increase, and for the Toffees, that could also see a higher price tag.

Whether or not Patterson is a regular for the Tartan Army is not a guarantee either, though, and he will have to work hard in training to push himself higher in Steve Clarke’s ranks.

The 24-year-old has started just one of his last four appearances for Scotland.

Everton to hope for strong summer for Scotland

When it comes to Everton’s ambitions and wants, they will want Patterson to have a strong summer and Scotland to do the same.

Moyes is unlikely to change his mind on the fullback now after constantly snubbing the defender throughout the season.

Patterson may feel he is good enough for Everton, but the thoughts of the manager matter more here.

A sale makes sense for all parties, and bringing in as high a fee as possible will be the goal for those at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Due to that, an exit for Patterson may not arrive until halfway through the summer, but it does look quite likely that an exit will occur at some point in the upcoming months.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.