Nathan Patterson says it was difficult to call time on his spell at Rangers - but it was a simple decision at the same time for his development.
The right-back joined Everton in January and after their successful Premier League survival bid last season, he has become one of their standout players so far this term. His opening six months were hampered by injury but performances against the likes of Liverpool have displayed the Rangers academy graduate's top tier talent.
He says each week provides new challenges at Everton, but it only serves to highlight why he left Ibrox for what many regard as the world's best league. Frank Lampard is his manager and former England full-back Ashley Cole is part of his coaching staff, on hand to provide Patterson with private tips for his improvement. Speaking to Toffees and Scotland hero James McFadden via the SFA, he reckons it's been a bright period in his career as he plays regularly for the first time.
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He said: "I have enjoyed the first part of the season with Everton. It's been a bit abnormal for me (playing every week). At Rangers I was second choice to James Tavernier and then going down to Everton, it's took me a while to get in the team. But I have started the season well and got my place in the team.
"You need to keep your feet on the ground. Each game has its different challenges but I look forward to them as they come. It is difficult as you know you are playing against someone who's capable of a bit of magic.
"I'm still 20 so I am learning each game. It was a tough decision for me to make (leaving Rangers) but an easy one to make at the same time. Going to a bottom end of the league team fighting for points was difficult but there's a new energy and belief in the team now.
"I've been doing clips from each game with Ashkey Cole, working out where I can improve, and I feel I have benefitted from that. It's great to work with someone like that."
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