Nathan Patterson has described his experience at the World Cup with Scotland as a 'dream come true', even as his future at Everton remains uncertain. The 24-year-old defender played in all three group matches, starting against Brazil and Morocco before coming off the bench in the win over Haiti.
Patterson's World Cup journey
Taking to Instagram a week after Scotland's exit, Patterson wrote: 'Even a week later it still doesn’t feel real. Every kid’s dream is to play for their country at the World Cup. To have done that, it’s a feeling I will never forget.' He added: 'The support from the whole country at home and abroad won’t be forgotten either. The best fans in the world. We will be back.'
Scotland's return to the World Cup after a long absence ended at the group stage, but for Patterson, the tournament marked a personal milestone. His recent career has been plagued by injuries, including missing Scotland's 2024 Euros campaign.
Everton uncertainty
Patterson is now in the final year of his contract with Everton, having joined the club in January 2022. Despite enjoying one of his longest injury-free runs, he did not start a game after a January win at Aston Villa, even as Everton struggled at right-back. The club is actively searching for a right-back this summer, and Patterson has attracted interest since the season ended.
His World Cup adventure, however, provided a bright spot. 'It’s a feeling I will never forget,' he said, reflecting on the support from Scottish fans.
