‘He’ll grow and learn’ – Sean Dyche delivers ‘tough’ verdict on Everton player

Everton manager Sean Dyche has given his honest opinion on Nathan Patterson’s performance 15 months after joining the Goodison Park, as relays the GN.

Dyche has supported Patterson and James Garner, despite their unsatisfactory display in the 1-3 home defeat against Fulham. He believes both players have the potential to prove themselves as first-team regulars but acknowledged the challenges they face in the current battle to avoid relegation.

Dyche also stated that Garner will develop and learn with time, although he must adapt quickly due to the team’s circumstances.

Dyche said: “He’ll (Garner) grow and learn as time goes on. Obviously at the minute it’s going to be a fast-track learning but there are a few players out there. Patto is a young player still, you forget that, they’re developing players, they’re not rounded Premier League bona fide players, they’ve got to develop and learn about that. Again, these are tough times for them to learn through but that’s the challenge.”

The current situation is challenging for Everton, but it may also provide an opportunity for Nathan Patterson to establish his future. Since joining in January 2022, the 21-year-old has had a sporadic time. He will have to step up in the remainder of the season, but his performance next season, whether in the Premier League or Championship, will be critical for his career. Despite starting the season in favour with Frank Lampard, he has had a mixed bag of 15 appearances due to injuries and competition for selection under the previous Burnley manager.