Euros blow fuels Patterson push for World Cup place
Scotland right-back Nathan Patterson says missing out on Euro 2024 in Germany because of injury only adds to his determination to make the squad for this summer's World Cup. Patterson, who has struggled with injuries over the years and featured inconsistently for club side Everton, has been recalled for the first time since last summer for Scotland's upcoming friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast. The 24-year-old has made just seven appearances for the Toffees this term and hasn't played since a one-minute cameo against Brighton at the end of January.
But the former Rangers defender insists he is fully fit and focused on being part of Scotland's first World Cup in 28 years. "The disappointment to not be a part of the Euros squad and miss out through injury was obviously hard to take," Patterson said. "But we've got another huge tournament in the summer and I want to make sure I'm there.
"I would have loved to be there and been involved, but these things happen and my main aim is to make sure I'm in the squad at the World Cup. "Whatever gets me there, I'll do that. I feel really fit.
I don't feel as if I'm in a stage where I'm doubting my body at the minute, so I'm happy where I'm at. "I think me and the manager have a good relationship. I know what I'm capable of and I know what I bring to the team.
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