Barry Ferguson predicts big Scotland future for Nathan Patterson
Barry Ferguson has tipped Rangers defender Nathan Patterson to start for Scotland against Israel in the major showdown on Saturday.
Three points would be critical in the push for World Cup Qualification, and Steve Clarke has many decisions to make on his squad.
Ferguson admitted that dropping Stephen O’Donnell is harsh, but that Patterson is a special talent with a huge future ahead of him.
Writing in his Daily Record column, Ferguson tipped Patterson for a start after he was handed the full 90 minutes against Hibs on Sunday.
“For me, Nathan Patterson on the right,” he said.
“Without being sentimental about it, we’ve got to put our hands on our hearts and admit Patterson is an outstanding young talent with a big Scotland career ahead of him.
“Patterson has played his way in at the right time. It wasn’t the best I’ve seen him play but what a ball he put in for Kemar Roofe’s equaliser.
“That’s the sort of quality which can change games at any level. What Patterson adds in an attacking sense is massively important. But I’ve also seen a huge improvement in what he does defensively. Trust me, this kid is ready.”
Ready.
Steven Gerrard has blooded Patterson perfectly since his arrival at Ibrox, and trusting him in such a big game as the one against Hibs on Sunday was testament.
It would have been easy to stick with James Tavernier, but the young sensation was given the nod and he repaid the boss with a wonderful assist.
O’Donnell has been solid for Scotland, there is no denying that, and that includes in the huge win against Austria last time out.
Having said that, his attacking ability is simply nowhere good enough when playing as a wing-back, especially when compared to Andy Robertson on the other side.
Imagine Patterson there and we would all be comfortable knowing that our attacking threat levels have gone up huge amounts.
It will be interesting to see the teamsheet tomorrow, will Clarke go with experience or the flair? We know which one we would choose.
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