Everton’s Nathan Patterson has outlined his commitment to impressing manager Sean Dyche at every opportunity while also hailing the influence of seasoned professionals Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman.
The highly-rated young defender has had to be patient for game time this season, competing with key experienced squad members Young and Coleman for regular minutes on the right of Everton’s defence.
The Scotland international was an unused substitute in both the FA Cup third round clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, and last week’s goalless draw against Aston Villa at Goodison.
Young continues to work his way back to full fitness following an injury he sustained during a 2-0 home win over Chelsea in December, while Coleman’s absence from the squad for Wednesday’s 1-0 win against the Eagles in the third round replay saw Patterson reinstated to Dyche’s starting XI.
The defender produced a commanding performance in his return to the side, minimising the threat of the dangerous Eberechi Eze playing on Palace’s left and finishing the game having made more successful interceptions than any other Everton player (three).
“The Gaffer says to us, ‘Anytime you get an opportunity you have to take it’,” told the defender to evertontv. “It’s good to know you are in his plans for the future, and at present as well. Anytime he plays me from the start, I want to make sure I am doing my best and showing him why I should stay in the team.
“Joao (Virginia) also did that in the last two games he played, especially on Wednesday against Palace. He made some top saves and kept a clean sheet for us – that’s what you expect.”
