Everton expect to have Nathan Patterson back playing in "four to five weeks" after he was forced to pull out of the Scotland squad due to an injury.
The former Rangers right-back had been a key player for Frank Lampard's men in the early part of the season after finally forcing his way into the side. His impressive start consolidated his place in Steve Clarke's Scotland side and he was unsurprisingly named in the starting XI to face Ukraine last week.
Less than half an hour in though he went down clutching his ankle and there was serious concern as he had to be stretchered off to be replaced by Brentford's Aaron Hickey. He then withdrew from the squad to return to Goodison Park to be assessed. But fears of a long-term absence have now been assuaged as the Toffees expect to have him back in four to five weeks.
It was reported on Wednesday that he would be facing six weeks on the sidelines. But an Everton statement reads: "Everton defender Nathan Patterson is expected to be out for around four to five weeks with an ankle injury.
The 20-year-old Blues right-back was forced off while on international duty during Scotland’s Nations League win over Ukraine at Hampden Park last Wednesday. Following a consultation with a specialist in London, Patterson will now undergo treatment under the care of Everton’s medical team at Finch Farm.
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