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Patterson On Key To Kick-Starting Season

Ahead of Everton's clash with Wolves at Goodison Park this weekend (Saturday, 3pm BST), Nathan Patterson sat down to discuss his belief in the quality of the Blues' squad, the importance of remaining positive, his personal goals for the season and what challenge Gary O'Neil's side will bring to Merseyside...


Nathan, it's not been the start to the season we would have liked but what's the feeling like in the camp at the moment?

Different emotions because after the Fulham game we were disappointed because we felt we should have come away with at least a point but probably all three. We created a lot of opportunities and missed a lot of chances. But then the Aston Villa game was just really disappointing with the way we played and, obviously, the scoreline - everything about it. The manager has reiterated a few things to us this week, particularly around mindset and ensuring a setback such as conceding first doesn't affect us too much, and we're staying positive, fully focused on the next game now.

How much optimism can you take from that Fulham performance - and being back at Goodison this weekend?

We know we can do it. You see the chances we created, how we were on top, playing positively but now it's just about being more clinical and putting games to bed when we have the opportunity. We're only two games in and there's 36 more to go so we just need to focus and keep taking each game as it comes. There is a lot of talent in the dressing room and we have a manager who knows what he's talking about and knows what he wants from us. If we can execute that then I still think we can have a really good season.

How much confidence does playing at Goodison give you?

You know you're going to get the support from the fans - they'll be roaring us on to go and score, go and press... It definitely gives you an extra boost. It's great to have their support every week and going out there knowing they'll be right behind you. I think it's important for us all to be positive, as players, staff and fans as well. If we all come at it positively, it'll only have a positive effect on the pitch. 


You touched on it earlier that we need to be more clinical. Is that something you want to try to help with as well, even from right-back?

Yes, of course. It's on all of us to take the chances. I missed a good chance in the Fulham game. It's really frustrating to know you could have helped the team get points on the board but we all have to keep getting in the positions, wanting to get on the scoresheet. It's not one person's job to score goals, it's on us as a team.

How important is this game against Wolves?

Every game is important. Obviously, we've got 38 games across the season and we place as much importance on them all. We've lost our first two so it's on us to correct things because we don't want to be in the position we've been in in the past two seasons.

What sort of test will Wolves pose?

They're coming into the game on the back of a poor result, like ourselves, so they'll obviously be wanting to make that right. They're a very good team, every team is in the Premier League, and they'll come to Goodison with a lot of energy but we're ready to match it and more. We're ready to go.

What are your targets for this season on a personal level?

To stay fit, first and foremost, and play as many games as possible. I want to help the team to have a successful season.

How are you feeling generally as an Everton player? You've been here for 18 months now...

I love it here. It feels like home now. I really enjoy everything about it. I love the fans, I love the environment that I'm in. The big focus for me now is helping to make it a good season for us.