Everton keeper Asmir Begovic reckons Nathan Patterson will be out to wreck Ange Postecoglou ’s party Down Under.
The former Rangers kid was hooked from International duty by Toffees boss Frank Lampard to take part in the Goodison Park side’s trip to Australia rather than head to Turkey with Scotland. Begovic is convinced the £16m signing is destined to get to the top and he’s well aware Patterson will have added incentive in tomorrow’s friendly clash in Sydney.
The former Chelsea and Stoke City shot stopper said: “I’m sure Nathan will want to win the game for sure. We all know his connections to the blue side of Glasgow. Nathan is a young lad with huge potential. He’s got a lot in front of him in his career. He can be one of the best right backs around. He’s settled in really well here, he’s a great lad and great character. He will do well, I’m sure.”
Begovic knows Celtic will have plenty of backing in front of Postecoglou’s home crowd. But he said: “It will be a good test for us. Celtic are a very good team with a very good manager.
“I’m sure there will be a great atmosphere as well. There’s always a bit of rivalry when teams from Scotland and England meet and there is the connection here with the Celtic manager as well. We’re hoping to put on a good performance.
Begovic is looking forward to squaring up to old Premier League glove rival Joe Hart. The Bosnia keeper said: “Joe is someone I know really well and he’s a great goalkeeper. He deserves all the success he’s had.
“It’ll be nice to catch up with him – and hopefully we can stick a couple past him! He’s someone I’d admired in the game, absolutely. I have huge respect for him but I’m sure it’s mutual. Joe is someone I’ve always tried to compete with and measure myself against.”
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