Toffees right-back Nathan Patterson has opened up about his relationship with manager Frank Lampard, and how a phone call from the Everton boss has helped to kickstart the Scottish international’s career.
Patterson moved to Goodison Park in a £12 million deal from Glasgow Rangers in January 2021 and was handed his senior debut at the club by Lampard in an FA Cup Fifth Round tie against Boreham Wood in March.
However, despite an impressive first-half performance, Patterson was subbed at half-time as the Blues changed their shape for the second period.
Though the 21-year-old admitted that he was disappointed at his Goodison Park debut being cut short, he reveals that a phone call with manager Frank Lampard reassured him that big things were expected of him long-term.
The Scottish international said, “That (being subbed) was difficult to take but the manager explained it wasn’t to do with my performance and I had to accept his decision.
I didn’t really get an opportunity after that, but he called me in the summer to say it was going to be a big season for me.
“So, I knew I had a chance of starting. I worked really hard, and I’ve managed to hit the ground running. I started our first Premier League game this season and have hopefully impressed.
“I’m enjoying it now. The fans seem to have taken to me. They want young players to do well, and they can see I’m a passionate person.”
Indeed, Evertonians have high hopes for the former Rangers man, who looks set to become the long-term successor to fan favourite Seamus Coleman.
His positive style of play and youthful enthusiasm, combined with a commitment that is demanded by the Goodison crowd have allowed Patterson to establish himself as the club’s first choice right-back, and it will be interesting to see how the 21-year-old continues to develop with the Blues.