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Patterson Keen To Maintain Tradition

Nathan Patterson is fully aware of Everton's long-standing and successful link with Scottish players - and says he is relishing the challenge of continuing the tradition. 

The 20-year-old right-back, who signed a five-and-a-half-year contract after completing a move from Rangers earlier this month, will become the 33rd Scotland international to represent the Blues when he makes his debut for the Club.

The path from Ibrox to Goodison Park, in particular, is a well-trodden one.

And while still only at the beginning of his football career, Patterson has already witnessed first-hand the impact Everton has had on some of his compatriots. 

“I know there has been a lot Scottish talent has come down here and been successful for Everton,” he told evertonfc.com. “I’ve been through the youth levels for the national team and come across a few players who have been here in years gone by.

“Steven Naismith is one who immediately comes to mind. I remember his attitude as a player and, obviously, the talent he had as well. I am sure he will have a good few conversations with me, because I know how much he thinks of the Club.

“Scot Gemmill is another - I worked with him for four or five games with the Under-21s and he was great for me. His focus on defensive work was brilliant and he made sure you’re always switched on at key times in matches.

“Every coach you work with has different styles and it’s up to you to take all of those experiences and apply them to your game. That’s what prepares you for senior football.

“Then, looking here now, obviously there is another Scot with Duncan Ferguson. He has been brilliant with me. He’s a massive character around the place, he’s loud and gets people going.

“He is another one who I can only learn from, having had such a good career and how highly he is respected here.”

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WATCH VIDEO 06:05

WATCH: PATTERSON'S FIRST EVERTON INTERVIEW

Full-back speaks to evertontv after completing January move from Rangers.

One of the 23 players who has turned out for both Everton and Rangers is mid-'80s favourite Andy Gray, who landed a league title, FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup medal during his all-too-brief stay with the Toffees.

He, too, has backed Patterson to be a hit with supporters.

“Absolutely, Nathan can make an impact,” Gray insists. “I like him a lot.

“He’s gone into the international set-up and slid into that team quite comfortably and quite confidently, which I like.

“He doesn’t look out of place. He’s not walking about the football pitch playing for Scotland and thinking: ‘I don’t know if I should be here’.

“He’s got a really good attitude and I think he will be a massive success and a great signing for Everton, I really do.

“It’s a fantastic club. It’s very much fan-driven. The supporters are the heartbeat of the Club, just as they are at Rangers. Nathan is joining a similar club in that respect.

“They love that kind of player at Everton. Seamus Coleman has been a massive success - one of the best buys ever for Everton at £60,000 from Irish football.

“And even in my day, a defender like Gary Stevens who went to Rangers and was a huge success, was that kind of swashbuckling full-back.

“Like Nathan, he had plenty of pace and plenty dynamism down that side.

“Everton fans will take to him, without question.”