Rangers icon Ally McCoist insists that Ibrox teen Nathan Patterson “really, really” deserves his place in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad for Euro 2020 – and believes the teen could even challenge for a starting place ahead of this summer’s finals.
The full-back has impressed in his appearances for Rangers and McCoist admits he was lucky to get the chance to shine after injury to James Tavernier left Steven Gerrard little option but to throw him into the side.
Despite seeing his season ended early as a result of a ban, McCoist confessed that Patterson grabbed his chance in the Rangers side, forcing his way into Clarke’s plans for Scotland’s first major tournament since 1998.
“I really, really do think he deserves it,” McCoist said, speaking to the Glasgow Times. “I don’t see any reason why not.
“I’ve got to be honest though. Through nobody’s fault but his own, he didn’t get the opportunity to continue the run that he was on. He was maybe a bit lucky to get back in with the injury to James Tavernier but I’ll tell you what – credit where it’s due. Boy, did he grab it. He’s really, really looked the part and I would have him in the squad.
“Stephen O’Donnell has done well at right-back but we don’t really have anyone else. Patterson would certainly compete for a place. I’m not saying just take these guys for a ride and give them a wee bit of experience: I think they could be there on merit. And once you get there, you have to grasp the opportunity when you get it.”
Patterson is the youngest Scotland player to make the squad for a major tournament after his maiden call up to the senior squad.
With friendlies against Luxembourg and the Netherlands to come before Scotland face Croatia, Czech Republic and England, Patterson should win his first cap before the competition gers started.
In other news, Rangers teen Euro 2020 spot hailed by former Scotland boss after wowing for Gers
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
