Everton star Nathan Patterson returns back to former club Rangers suddenly

The defender has struggled for game time amid speculation over a loan move back to Ibrox

Fringe man Nathan Patterson has been told by Everton boss Sean Dyche he won’t be allowed to leave with the squad “stretched”.

It comes amid swirls over a return to Rangers on loan – with Toffees boss Dyche stating that replacements would have to be found to allow the 23-year-old to leave Goodison Park and ramp up his game time. Philippe Clement is in the midst of a defensive injury crisis with his skipper James Tavernier, Jack Butland, Leon Balogun, John Souttar and Neraysho Kasanwirjo all on the sidelines.

The Light Blues and a host of English Championship sides are reportedly interested in signing the right-back on a temporary deal – who has managed just 40 minutes of Premier League football across his three substitute appearances off the bench. Patterson is said to be keen to increase his time on the pitch as he looks to catch Steve Clarke’s eye and return to the Scotland set-up.

With Seamus Coleman injured, veteran Ashley Young has emerged as the first-choice right back for Everton with Patterson acting as back-up. Asked about the prospect of players like Patterson leaving on loan before the clash with Brentford, Dyche said: “At the end of the day, our situation here is that we certainly will not be letting anyone go unless we need to.

“Unless, of course, we can swap and change. We want to keep the squad, we have had injuries and been very stretched. We are certainly not looking to have players going out.”

But today the Belgian goes into an Ibrox Old Firm clash missing several Rangers big hitters and real fear that if the champions are at it, then it could be one for the ages against the depleted hosts and one the boss may not survive.