Nathan Patterson was announced as Everton’s second signing of January on Tuesday, and he has given his verdict on Seamus Coleman. The signing from Rangers is expected to compete with the Irishman at right-back.
Patterson, 20, joins Everton on a five-and-a-half year deal until June 2027 – with a move believed to have cost the Toffees up to £16million. He joins an Everton side that already boast Coleman and Jonjoe Kenny at right-back.
Rangers have received a record fee for their Ibrox academy product, that figure previously held by current manager Gio van Bronckhorst. He joined Arsenal back in 2001 for a fee in the region of £12million.
Asked about those ahead of him in the right-back pecking order, Scotland international Patterson said he has spoken to Coleman. Patterson states he is looking forward to learning from the £70k-a-week (Spotrac) flyer.
“I had a good conversation with Seamus and am really looking forward to working with him,” Patterson told Everton’s website. “He is an experienced pro. I am looking to learn and grab anything I can from him.
“I am here to learn and improve and, hopefully, win things and do well for the Club. I have met most of the First Team, it is a good group of lads and there is a good team spirit. Everyone has made me feel welcome.”
Patterson on Coleman: Will Everton star be first choice right away?
Probably not, but it is only going to be a matter of time. Coleman is probably still first choice, but age and injuries are catching up with the Irishman. He will be 34 in October – when Patterson turns 21.
Kenny is a good back-up option. But he is hardly the answer long-term, especially with the England Under-21 star now out of contract at the end of the season. Patterson, then, has a real chance to be first choice soon.
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