Lampard must finally unleash “aggressive” ace, it’s “bizarre” Everton don't play him - opinion

Everton defender Nathan Patterson once again impressed for Scotland last night, with BBC Sport Scotland naming him man of the match after the Tartan Army drew 1-1 with Poland in an international friendly.

A 68th-minute goal from Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney appeared to be enough to secure a victory, but despite Krzysztof Piatek’s 94th-minute equaliser from the penalty spot, the performance was encouraging for Scottish fans, and also Evertonians who will be buzzing to see their £16m man shine for his country.

Former Scotland manager Craig Levein said during BBC’s live coverage of the game: “I really like when Scotland come down the right. Nathan Patterson has got the better of his opposite man, we just need to keep feeding him the ball. He’s had two shots, a couple of crosses, and been very effective.

“His attacking skills are probably the best part of his game. In a game with wing-backs where you’re trying to attack down the sides, he’s very, very useful.”

Given 33-year-old Seamus Coleman’s inconsistent form, which has seen him average a poor 6.5 Sofascore match rating in the last four games, it is hugely surprising that Patterson has made just one appearance for the Toffees so far, particularly as he is viewed to be the Irishman’s successor.

The Guardian journalist Ewan Murray spoke of the 20-year-old’s continued omission by Frank Lampard after the Scotland match on Thursday night, saying: “Nathan Patterson’s absence from the Everton team is even more bizarre when you watch him playing like this.”

It’s hard to disagree with that statement after the former Rangers prospect terrorised Spezia left wing-back Arkadiusz Reca, also working Bologna shot-stopper Lukasz Skorupski, having had three shots on target and sending