Sean Dyche hints at interesting new position for Nathan Patterson at Everton when he returns from injury

Everton are looking to keep their unbeaten run of five games going this weekend when they make the trip south to play Southampton.

Sean Dyche has seemingly steadied the ship on Merseyside with Everton now opening up a cushion on the bottom three.

The Toffees sealed a late point against Fulham last time out to keep their unbeaten spell going but the performance left a lot to be desired.

But there are plenty of positives at Goodison Park with players like Jake O’Brien working hard behind the scenes at Everton to impress the manager.

One player who will not feature on Saturday is Nathan Patterson as he continues his injury recovery back at Everton’s training centre.

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Sean Dyche moots Nathan Patterson could play new Everton role

The right-back was a topic of discussion on Thursday in Dyche’s press conference with his injury latest the main priority.

However, one reporter did question Dyche whether the £16m right-back Patterson could follow in Seamus Coleman’s boots and potentially try a more advanced role at right-wing.

“I think that kind of open mindedness of where players play has kind of changed a bit because they brought in from such a young age,” said Dyche.

“You know, one position I personally don’t believe in. I think you should be experienced in lots of different positions, because you do find that a player can play in another position.”

“Back to the point on Patterson, I think he’s a more of a right-back. I think maybe he could do a job on the right side, but I think it would take him time to develop into that role.”

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Everton need an upgrade on Jack Harrison at right-wing

The draw on the weekend saw Jack Harrison really struggle to make an impact against Fulham as he was withdrawn in the second half.

Dyche has seen improved aspects to his side over the summer with Iliman Ndiaye really impressing the Everton fans since landing on Merseyside.

However, the same cannot be said on the right flank with Harrison yet to provide a goal or assist in any of his 11 appearances so far.

Whether Patterson is the answer or not, clearly, Everton are not getting the returns which they need from the Leeds United loanee.