Everton: Nathan Patterson involved in Scotland dilemma ahead of Brazil clash amid training latest

Everton outcast Nathan Patterson could be in line to face Brazil in Scotland's final group game of the World Cup.

The Tartan Army will take on former Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti and his star-studded Brazil side on Wednesday in a crucial game for the Scots.

Scotland picked up a 1-0 win against Haiti to kickstart their tournament in North America, but a 1-0 loss to Morocco means a spot in the knockout stages isn't guaranteed.

Patterson played in his nation's defeat to Morocco, and may have been set for the bench if he left Steve Clarke unimpressed last time out.

The ex-Rangers star didn't have much joy under David Moyes last season, and was unable to get many minutes at Hill Dickinson, despite seemingly overcoming his injury woes.

However, Patterson could get another crucial nod for the Brazil game, as his chances of starting have just been improved.

Aaron Hickey absence puts Nathan Patterson into Scotland dilemma

Patterson was out of favour under Moyes last season, as the Everton boss often opted to start Jake O'Brien at right-back instead.

O'Brien is naturally a central defender, which shows just how far down Patterson has gone in the pecking order for the Toffees, though he seems to have more importance for his country.

In an update by Sky Sports on Monday, Brentford's right-wing back, Aaron Hickey, was absent from Scotland's training.

It was suggested that Clarke and Co. could be monitoring his minutes on the pitch before possibly including him, while Patterson and Anthony Ralston were also mentioned.

Scotland have a dilemma over who to start, though if Hickey is sidelined for the Brazil game, Patterson's chances of starting will be improved, with just Ralston to beat for the nod.

Patterson can do Everton a favour against Vinicius Junior

Everton's top priority this summer is to sign a new right-back, and Patterson is likely to leave.

The Toffees have a huge list of potential targets, though they will only offload Patterson once they have signed a player in his position.

The Scottish international could do the Blues a huge favour by pocketing Vinicius Junior on Wednesday, in hopes that his price tag could increase.

Rangers have been credited with interest, as Sevilla have also been tipped to sign him in recent months.