Everton boss Frank Lampard has heaped praise on Nathan Patterson's 'character' and says he is only going to get better and better.
The former Rangers kid struggled to make a proper impact at the Toffees last season following his mega-money move from Ibrox to the riches of the English Premier League. He made his debut in an FA Cup clash with Boreham Wood but was subbed off after 45 minutes in his only top team game-time of the campaign.
Fast forward to this season and the Scotland international has been a key member of Lampard's starting team. He has played every single minute of the new English Premier League season and once again impressed in the Merseyside derby against Liverpool. His form has been recognised by his boss who singled him out for praise while former Reds midfielder Danny Murphy also believes the Evertonians will 'love' the full-back.
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Lampard said: "What a start to the season – he was injured when he was about to make his debut last year, so it has been hard.
“But he has shown character. People say he’s a really good offensive full back, but his defensive game has been excellent.
“It is hard on the full backs when we switched to a back four, because there are a lot more questions asked. But he has done great, and he’s a young player so he’s only going to get better.”
Murphy added: “I think the fans are going to love him, the way he bombs forward and gets a foot in. They love that, the Evertonians.
“The defensive work is impressive too. He has the strength to keep the ball under pressure, and physically is very, very good. He’s only 20 but he’s really shown the fans what he’s about.”
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