In-form Nathan Patterson has been labelled a "diamond" by Liverpool favourite Danny Murphy after his all-action display in the Merseyside Derby draw.
The rampaging Everton right-back has nailed down his position in Frank Lampard's side and impressed again when Jurgen Klopp's big-hitters crossed Stanley Park on Saturday. The 0-0 scoreline belied an encounter packed with chances and thrilling incidents as both teams were forced to settle for a point - despite multiple shots off the woodwork and a host of incredible saves.
But Murphy was keen to highlight the 20-year-old's emergence during his post-match analysis, and he spent most of the section talking up the former Rangers star. The Scotland international left Ibrox in a £12m deal back in January and is thriving at Goodison Park, as he caused Liverpool 's all conquering side problems during a pulsating 90 minutes.
An impressed Murphy, speaking on Match of the Day said: "Yeah, he was sensational. It was a brilliant 0-0. But this young lad, Nathan Patterson, seems to have the lot. He is only 20, he came in January, physically, he is very, very good. Early in the game he was setting his mark, showing the fans what he is all about. Win your first 50/50. Do you have the composure to play through the lines and pick nice passes, yes he does.
"He's got this desire to get forward and have an impact on the game, which I think is great. His defensive work is good, you can see the strength to keep the ball under pressure. It's only his sixth Premier League appearance but he looked comfortable, he really looked established.
"The awareness to play around corners, to have the courage and freedom to play as he wants to play. Every time he is bombing forward he is leaving Luis Diaz, so he is obviously comfortable with what he is doing.
"I think the fans are going to love him, the way he bombs forward and gets a foot in. They love that, the Evertonians. Late in the game he has the fitness levels and concentration to defend properly. He is a diamond, they really have got themselves a good player in the market. He is a terrific young player."
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