Nathan Patterson has revealed how the backing of boss Frank Lampard and Evertonians has boosted his confidence – and believes he can take his performance levels to new heights over the coming weeks.
Patterson has completed the full 90 minutes in each of Everton’s opening two Premier League games this season, delivering a pair of accomplished performances at right wing-back.
The 20-year-old joined Everton from boyhood club Glasgow Rangers in January and, while admitting his settling-in process “took a wee bit of time”, says he now “feels like an Evertonian”.
Patterson is now intent on playing an important role in helping Everton ignite their campaign when the Blues host Nottingham Forest at Goodison Park on Saturday.
Speaking to evertontv in the aftermath of last weekend’s 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa, he said: “I felt full of energy in the game and tried to provide for the team.
“It was difficult with the heat, but in every match I’ll try to push on and get fitter and stronger.
“When you start the game, the manager obviously has belief in you. The coaching staff are fantastic and there are a great set of lads here.
“And when you have the away fans backing us like they do, they give you confidence, as well as your teammates.
“The fans travel everywhere in numbers. They are always loud and they give you the extra push you need.”
“I’m really settling in and looking forward to kicking on. It took a wee bit of time, and the setback of my injury at the end of last season didn’t help.
“Each time I want to pull on a jersey, I want to do my very best. I have belief in myself. I’ll just keep pushing and hopefully we can get a result against Forest.”
Patterson outlined the importance of Everton approaching the Forest clash with a positive mindset after the narrow defeats to Chelsea and Aston Villa.
He highlighted Everton’s efforts after falling 2-0 down at Villa – the Blues rapidly got one goal back before carving out several chances to score a late leveller – as evidence of the squad’s spirit.
“There are a lot of positives to take from the game,” said the Scotland international. “We never gave up.
“I thought we deserved at least a draw. Now we’re looking forward to the next game at home in front of a full Goodison.
“We just need to keep pushing, keep believing, and believe in ourselves and our teammates.”
Summer signing Conor Coady and Amadou Onana make their Everton debuts in the Villa clash.
The commanding Coady featured from the start of the game, while Onana produced a vibrant performance after being introduced as an 81st-minute substitute.
“Conor is great, a big character,” Patterson said.
“He talks you through the game and he’s always willing to help. I think he did well for us [against Villa]. He’s looking to push us forward and help us keep more clean sheets in future.
“Ama has come in and he’s been bright.
“He’s got lots of energy and he showed that on the pitch. He came on and created our goal. I’m looking forward to seeing more of him.”
