Everton manager Sean Dyche will have an exciting option to bring back into the fold when Nathan Patterson is able to return from injury.
What’s the latest?
The Toffees have been without Patterson for a few weeks now after the right-back picked up an injury issue in the game against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Patterson sustained ligament damage in his knee and it is believed he could be out for around six weeks, which would suggest he could return in just over one week.
In his place, veteran Seamus Coleman has stepped up and played a huge role in their victory over Arsenal on the weekend as he faced up against the in-form Gabriel Martinelli.
However, speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed seeing Patterson return will provide Dyche an extra option which he could unleash:
“But I felt Seamus Coleman was excellent against Arsenal the other day as well and really stepped up to the mark as well. But yeah, just gives Sean Dyche an extra option in defence as well once Patterson’s back to full fitness.”
Something different
Coleman has been a sensational servant for Everton having now racked up 399 appearances for the Toffees after signing for just £62k back in 2009.
And up against the young Brazilian for Arsenal, the 34-year-old was able to provide Dyche with six clearances and one tackle during the 90 minutes at Goodison Park (via SofaScore).
However, the young Petterson has shown some remarkable form for the Toffees since arriving from Rangers last January.
Does Dyche need to start Patterson when fit?
Yes
No
The 21-year-old ranks inside the top fifth percentile for tackles, blocks and clearances made per 90 minutes among other full-backs (via Fbref).
And in comparison to Coleman, Patterson has been able to provide Everton with more shot-creating actions and passes per 90 minutes.
It is apparent the youngster’s form in an Everton shirt has caught the attention of those back up in his motherland with BBC man Simon Donnelly lavishing him with high praise:
“There’s no fear in his play, wants to get forward at any opportunity, he’s easily slotted into this Scotland team and has already scored a goal. I’ve seen how he’s a fan favourite for Everton and he’s going from strength to strength,” he said.
It will be interesting to see how Dyche integrates Patterson back into the side when he returns to the squad as he knows what he will get from Coleman.
However, it is apparent that with Patterson, Dyche could provide the Toffees with a bright spark down the right side of the pitch.
