Scotland have qualified for the World Cup, and Everton right-back Nathan Patterson needs to think about moving on.
Everton players have been on international duty, but boss David Moyes has probably enjoyed this international break more than most.
Scotland produced a quite remarkable performance to beat Denmark 4-2 and book a place at the 2026 World Cup.
Scott McTominay’s unbelievable bicycle kick started a dream night for all Scotland fans, who can now start booking their flights to the United States.
Everton v Peterborough United - Emirates FA Cup Third Round
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Nathan Patterson now needs to leave Everton in January
Everton defender Nathan Patterson could be involved for Scotland, but his role in Steve Clarke’s squad is unclear.
Patterson has struggled with injuries at Everton and hasn’t made a single Premier League appearance this season.
The numbers don’t look good for Patterson, who started three Premier League games last season and nine in the 2023-24 campaign.
Everton signed Patterson from Rangers in January 2022, believing that he would become Seamus Coleman’s long-term heir.
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That hasn’t happened, and the 24-year-old simply has to leave Everton in January in order to push for a spot in Scotland’s World Cup squad.
Patterson has been capped 23 times by Scotland, but he has missed the entire World Cup qualification campaign.
In fact, Patterson has managed just 32 minutes of international action since April 2024.
Scotland’s first World Cup campaign in 28 years is on the horizon, and Patterson needs to make sure he is impressing Clarke.
A January move to play first-team football is the best way to do that, and a January exit is best for all parties.
Nathan Patterson missed out on Sevilla move
Patterson is bound to attract interest come January.
The Everton right-back can bring real quality when fit, and clubs will be keen on a potential loan swoop.
Sevilla may be one club to watch after they attempted to sign Patterson before the summer transfer deadline.
Everton scrapped Patterson’s move at the last minute, having failed to bring in a right-back to replace him.
Everton will surely be open to letting Patterson go in January, and a move to Europe may just allow him the chance to nail down his Scotland place.