Manager David Moyes has preferred centre-back Jake O’Brien or even midfielder James Garner on the right of defence, while at international level, Brentford’s Aaron Hickey – when fit – is ahead of him.
“I think I can only focus on myself. I can’t worry just now,” said Patterson after coming off the bench in the 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast at his home ground of Hill Dickinson Stadium, having started the weekend loss to Japan.
“I’ve got to go back to club level, and hopefully I can play as many games as I possibly can.”
Asked whether he had spoken to national team boss Steve Clarke about his lack of Everton game time, Patterson – who was watched by Moyes – added: “Not really, no.
“I can only do what I can do, train well and when I get the opportunity to do well, and I’ve done that this season.
“Obviously, when you don’t play as many minutes as you want during the season, you might feel a bit rusty, but I felt really good.
“We’ve got a good squad here, everyone works hard for each other. I can’t speak for others but myself. When you’re not playing as much as you would like, you make sure you’re fit and ready.
“I feel as if I’ve done really well with the past two games. This is the best I’ve felt in a while, so I’m just looking forward to getting as many minutes as possible.”