Everton have been struck with an injury blow recently as Nathan Patterson was stretchered off in the first half of Scotland’s 3-0 win over Ukraine last week.
However, much to the presumed relief of everyone at Everton, it has been reported that the injury he picked up is not as serious as first feared and isn’t likely to be out of action for a significant period of time.
Should the Scotsman be unable to feature in any of the Merseyside club’s next Premier League games, however, this could give Frank Lampard the chance to turn to Toffees veteran, Seamus Coleman, and allow him to fill in while Patterson is out.
The Irishman has yet to make an appearance in the league this season due to the fact that Patterson has been impressive by making more successful tackles (13) than any other player at the Merseyside club.
Last season saw the 33-year-old win more tackles (42) than any other defender in Lampard’s squad, as well as racking up more blocks (59) than any of his teammates as well as the second-highest number of interceptions (54) at Goodison Park.
This highlights the clear defensive talent the £70k-per-week defender has and why he would be a suitable replacement for the Scottish international if he needs some time to recover.
The Toffees manager certainly knows what Coleman can offer his side in addition to his skills on the pitch, as Lampard had this to say about him back in April.
He said: “He’s a fantastic captain of the club. Everything I heard before I came, from Carlo Ancelotti and others in the game, was about Seamus Coleman being an incredible captain and he’s delivered that and more. His effect on the lads when he speaks is immense.”
Taking all of this into account, giving the veteran a chance to shine again in the team if Patterson is out is something that Lampard shouldn’t need to think too long about.
