KIERAN TIERNEY has backed Scotland star Nathan Patterson to recover from the injury blow that has left him facing a spell on the sidelines this season.
The right-back was stretchered off during the 3-0 win over Ukraine on Wednesday night and faces an anxious wait to discover the extent of the damage to his knee.
Patterson reported for international duty in fine form and high spirits after an impressive start to the campaign in the Premier League with Everton.
But fellow full-back Tierney knows all too well the recovery process that he will now have to embark on as he bids to return to action for club and country.
Tierney said: “I felt for him. I knew straight away because I’ve been there. It’s football, isn’t it? What can you do?
“He won a tackle and bust a gut to get back and picked up an injury. He’s done it for us.
“I don’t know the extent of it but I hope it’s not too bad and he’s back soon. It’s just a shame because he’s been flying this season.
"The main thing with injuries is you have to accept it. There’s nothing you can do.
“You can’t not tackle. You have to give 100 percent. Nathan did that and he got an injury. But I’m sure he’ll work hard and come back strong.
“I’ve had a few myself, as you know. The longest have been two or three months. I had the knee operation in the summer as well and once you are back you are still managing it as well.
“It’s not like you are 100 percent as soon as you are back. I missed pre-season as well so I’m still playing a bit of catch up, trying to get fit.
“I’m working hard every day and I’ve been looking forward to this run of games to get some game time.”
