Everton defender Nathan Patterson was in action for Scotland on Tuesday night against Northern Ireland.
The 22-year-old Toffees defender started the game but his performance was not up to the mark.
Patterson, who hasn’t played for Everton since the end of January, looked rusty and made a crucial mistake leading to the opening goal.
Despite enjoying a lion-share of possession, Scotland lost 1-0 against Nothern Ireland at Hampden Park. Steve Clarke’s side were pretty average, with none of the players making a significant impact.
Liverpool defender Andy Robertson picked up an ankle injury during the game, It was a laboured performance from Scotland who failed to register a single shot on target.
Patterson committed a cheap error in the build-up to the goal as Conor Bradley scored a beauty that took a deflection off Joe Hendry.
The Daily Record has shared the player ratings from the game and none of the players have managed over 6/10. Patterson has managed only 4/10.
The newspaper wrote (page 50): “Overplayed in the box and lost the ball as Bradley struck the opener. Didn’t recover from that slip.”
Nathan Patterson has struggled for Everton this season
Patterson is a fantastic defender but he is lacking confidence at the moment. The Scotland defender has struggled with injury problems at Goodison Park and it has hampered his progress.
This season, he has managed nine starts in the Premier League and a further 10 have come from the bench. He has managed only two assists for the club, which shows that the 2023-24 season hasn’t gone well for him.
Everton need his players to step up and show more responsibility as they look to avoid relegation. Sean Dyche’s side has not won a game in 2024, and it is becoming a cause for concern.
The Toffees could face further points deduction in their second hearing, while the uncertainty around the club over the takeover saga has hampered everyone including the playing staff.
Patterson is a fantastic player but his poor performance for his country could further shake his confidence.
