Rangers star Nathan Patterson’s recent performances for the Light Blues have wowed fans and pundits alike – and ex-Ibrox star Alan Hutton wants to see a “tussle” between Patterson and skipper James Tavernier for the right-back spot in Steven Gerrard’s side.
Patterson has been thrown in with Tavernier sidelined, excelling for the Gers as he looked every bit a first-team player at home and in European games and grabbing a couple of goals into the bargain.
While Hutton admits that gametime for Patterson could be limited in the short-term once Tavernier returns from injury, he’d prefer the Scotland under-21 star stayed at Ibrox and fought for his place rather than head out on loan.
However, if he does go out temporarily, Hutton thinks a move to a club who don’t play a similar style to Rangers would be pointless for Patterson’s development.
“Patterson has shown he can handle the pressure of playing for Rangers in big games, but we can’t forget how outstanding Tavernier has been,” Hutton said, speaking to BBC Scotland. “He’s grown into the captaincy and his goals and assists from right-back are unbelievable. It’s mind-boggling.
“It’ll be a great contest between the two. Competition is what you need at a big club and it’s going to be a headache for Gerrard. Game time could become limited, but I would want Patterson to stay and fight for his place.
“I had the same situation when I was coming through. The difference is Fernando [Ricksen] could play in midfield. When I was pushing him that hard he switched position, it was happy days for everyone. But Patterson doesn’t have that.
“If there was an opportunity to go on loan, it would only make sense if he goes to a club playing the same style as Rangers or else there’s no point as it wouldn’t help his development.
“But I want to see him make it a tussle between himself and the captain.”
In other news, a Rangers loanee has opened up on his progress on loan in England
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
