Nathan Patterson prioritises Scotland over Everton future as World Cup push intensifies
Nathan Patterson has put talks about his Everton future with manager David Moyes on hold and is concentrating on securing a place in Scotland’s World Cup squad as he prepares for a pair of warm-up friendlies this week at Hampden and on Merseyside. The 24-year-old right-back, who has struggled for regular game time at his Premier League club, has been recalled to the national side by Steve Clarke and says the call-up is his top priority. Patterson is determined to use the upcoming fixtures to force his way into Steve Clarke’s plans for the summer tournament.
Nathan Patterson on World Cup push
The most immediate development: Patterson has paused club-future discussions with David Moyes to focus on international duty and his World Cup ambitions. Everton manager David Moyes is named as the club contact Patterson has deferred talks with, while Scotland manager Steve Clarke has brought the right-back back into the squad for friendlies against Japan at Hampden Park and Ivory Coast at Everton’s stadium in Liverpool. Patterson has struggled for minutes at club level and is aiming to change that narrative on international duty.
Everton have used Patterson sparingly this season; the player has been an unused substitute on a regular basis and has made limited first-team appearances. That restricted playing time has not prevented Clarke from recalling him, offering Patterson an opening to showcase fitness and form before Scotland travel to the World Cup finals. Patterson has started at Everton’s new ground on only one occasion in the Premier League, and he views a rare outing at the Hill Dickinson Stadium as a possible springboard to regain momentum.
Immediate reactions — players and managers
Nathan Patterson, Everton right-back, addressed his recent career pattern and mindset: “I’ve matured a bit now, I’ve experienced a lot of ups and downs. Quite a lot of downs, to be honest, in terms of injuries. But it’s only going to be benefit me for my future. What have I learned about myself? That I’ve got a lot of patience and that I’m quite strong-minded. I always believe in myself as well. You need to have that when you’re at a high level. You need that confidence. “
Steve Clarke has restored Patterson to the Scotland squad for the friendly double-header with Japan and Ivory Coast, signalling continued interest from the national setup despite Patterson’s limited club minutes. David Moyes remains the Everton manager with whom Patterson has deferred contract conversations while prioritising international preparation.
Quick context and what’s next
Background: Patterson is a former Rangers youth product who missed out on the European Championship due to injury and has since been working to rebuild international prospects. He has been part of Scotland squads and was recalled ahead of warm-up matches designed to prepare the team for the World Cup finals this summer.
Looking ahead: Patterson will use the friendly fixtures against Japan and Ivory Coast to press his case for inclusion in Scotland’s World Cup squad and to stake a stronger claim for more regular involvement at Everton. The immediate developments to monitor are Patterson’s minutes in the upcoming matches and whether those performances prompt renewed talks about his Everton future after international duty. Nathan Patterson has signalled his intention to make the most of this chance to influence both club and country decisions in the near term.
