Nathan Patterson’s form isn’t up for debate, however, what to do with him once James Tavernier is fit is a question that very much needs to be answered.
Speaking on Sportscene after Rangers 2-0 win over Celtic in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup, former Celtic forward, Shaun Maloney believes that staying at Ibrox and competing with the skipper could see the 19-year old go up a few levels as he looks to take his place in the first-team, which is a point Alan Hutton – who knows only too well the pressures of being a Rangers right-back – agrees with, as reported by The Daily Record:
“Patterson has shown he can handle the pressure of playing for Rangers in big games, but we can’t forget how outstanding Tavernier has been.
“He’s grown into the captaincy and his goals and assists from right-back are unbelievable. It’s mind boggling. But what we’ve seen so far is that Patterson can play at the top level.
“The battle between him and Tavernier is going to be interesting in the months to come. I had the same situation when I was coming through.
“The difference is Fernando (Ricksen) could play in midfield. When I was pushing him that hard he switched position, it was happy days for everyone. But Patterson doesn’t have that.
“If there was an opportunity to go on loan, it would only make sense if he goes to a club playing the same style as Rangers or else there’s no point as it wouldn’t help his development.
“But I want to see him make it a tussle between himself and the captain. It’ll be a great contest between the two.
“Competition is what you need at a big club and it’s going to be a headache for Gerrard. Game time could become limited, but I would want Patterson to stay and fight for his place.”
Patterson shouldn’t go on loan just to get games, he has already shown the level that he can operate at, staying with Rangers and training alongside Tavernier and with top class players – and coaching staff – is the perfect way to continue his development, it also saves the club a lot of money.
Those that want Patterson to go out on loan need to consider the cost implications of securing an able deputy, something that tripped us up in the past, we have one now, why the rush to get him out the door?
Vital Rangers Young Player of the Year
Ianis Hagi
Nathan Patterson
James Maxwell
Stephen Kelly
Hutton is right, although in reference to Fernando Ricksen, why couldn’t Tavernier move inside? He has the skillset, he certainly has the engine, and it’s something that we at Vital Rangers would love to see – at least until Ryan Jack gets fit.
Tavernier and Patterson playing together on the right-hand side? Now there’s a thought.