Nathan Patterson finally made his Premier League debut for Everton against Chelsea on Saturday night, almost eight months after leaving Rangers.
The right-back made his boyhood club a fortune when moving to the Merseyside club in January to fulfil his dream in playing in one of Europe's top leagues, but he has had to be patient to make that a reality. An injury ended his domestic season early after struggling to break into boss Frank Lampard's plans.
It was a baptism of fire for the Rangers academy graduate who faced up Chelsea's new signing Raheem Sterling during a 1-0 win for Thomas Tuchel's side. Jorginho scored a penalty just before half-time after a clumsy challenge by Abdoulaye Doucoure inside the box but Patterson did himself no harm of staying in Lampard's XI with a strong showing against a proven EPL player. Everton are next in action against Steven Gerrard's Aston Villa.
READ MORE: Ex-Celtic man on Rangers' 'statement' transfer, title race and 'can't afford to lose' UCL verdict
Lampard said of the game: "Frustrated, but not in terms of our performance. We never let Chelsea play apart from one moment.
"It was a tiny mistake from us and it cost us the game. Our lads gave everything. Small frustration because of the result.
"'The atmosphere was brilliant. Maybe we tired a bit second half but the young half were mobile constantly against Chelsea. It was a big challenge for them."
READ NEXT:
- Livingston blast 'unacceptable' Rangers game scenes as 'irresponsible few' prompt Lions reaction
- Rangers star 'banned' from Livingston as David Martindale makes honest red card admission
- Joe Aribo in post Rangers viral wonder goal as he makes honest admission on Southampton transfer
- Rangers Champions League draw confirmed as Light Blues land difficult playoff assignment
