Moyes handed simple Nathan Patterson decision by Everton pre-season evidenceEverton’s pre-season friendly against Blackburn Rovers appears to have handed David Moyes a straightforward decision to make on Nathan Patterson.The Toffees slipped to a 1-0 defeat at Ewood Park in their second pre-season outing, having begun their preparations for the upcoming campaign with a draw against Accrington Stanley.Moyes named a strong side for the clash against their Championship hosts, with the team packed with players who have been a regular feature in the Premier League.Patterson was among those to start for the top-flight outfit, and his performance has potentially handed his manager a simple decision to make in the next few weeks.Moyes named a strong team for the Blackburn friendly. (Credit: Imago)Patterson struggled in Blackburn defeatPatterson struggled to make any sort of impact at Everton last term, as he started just three games all season in the Premier League.MORE TOFFEES STORIESThat has understandably resulted in his future being called into question since the conclusion of the campaign, especially since Moyes is keen to take the team to the next level this season.The youngster has been with the Merseysiders for over three years now since his move south of the border from Rangers, but he hasn’t really developed as the Toffees would have perhaps expected at first.He started the game against Blackburn on the right side of the back four, but did little to show Moyes that he is deserving of more minutes.The 23-year-old got sucked towards the middle of the goal for Blackburn’s winner, leaving Dion De Neve with an easy finish at the back post.Patterson was eventually replaced in the 58th minute, having also struggled to offer Everton any sort of consistent outlet going forward.Patterson struggled against Blackburn. (Credit: Imago)Patterson has handed Moyes an easy decisionPatterson’s disappointing showing may well have left Moyes with a simple decision regarding his future.The Scottish international still has plenty of time to improve and resurrect his career at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but Moyes should look to send him out on loan if an opportunity presents itself in the next few weeks.He needs to play regular Premier League football, but also isn’t a strong enough option for Everton at the moment, given their desire to progress up the table.Season Apps Goals Assists 2024/25 11 – 1 2023/24 26 – 2 2022/23 23 – 1 2021/22 1 – – Total 61 – 4 Patterson’s Everton stats.Moyes should look to send him out on loan to a team who are expected to be battling against relegation, as this would allow him to play week in, week out and gain the level of exposure that he needs on a regular basis.Patterson certainly shouldn’t be written off by Moyes, but for now at least, it would seemingly be better for him to spend some time away from his parent club.Sign up for the Goodison News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Everton news sent straight to your phone.
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