Can Everton Replace Coleman By Unleashing Star in Totally Different Role?

A Deep Dive into the Possibility

Seamus Coleman has been a mainstay at right-back for Everton for over a decade, but his recent injury woes have left the Toffees short of options in that position. Manager Frank Lampard is reportedly considering a surprise solution: deploying Nathan Patterson in a more advanced role.

Patterson's Versatility and Promise

Attacking Acumen

Patterson, a natural right-back, has shown glimpses of his attacking prowess during his time at Rangers. He is a pacy and direct runner with good dribbling skills and an eye for a pass. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and create chances for teammates makes him a potential threat in the final third.

Defensive Solidity

Despite his attacking instincts, Patterson is also a solid defender. He is strong in the tackle, reads the game well, and is comfortable in one-on-one situations. His versatility and adaptability make him a valuable asset for any team.

Benefits of the Switch

Fresh Impetus

Deploying Patterson in a more advanced role would provide Everton with a fresh impetus in attack. His pace, dribbling ability, and creativity could help the Toffees create more chances and score more goals.

Release Coleman's Pressure

Coleman has been a dependable performer for Everton, but his recent injuries have raised concerns about his long-term fitness. Moving Patterson to a more attacking role would allow Coleman to focus on his defensive duties and reduce the pressure on his aging body.

Challenges and Considerations

Defensive Cover

One of the main challenges of switching Patterson to a more advanced role is the potential lack of defensive cover on the right flank. Everton would need to find a suitable replacement for Coleman, either through the transfer market or by promoting from within.

Tactical Flexibility

Lampard would need to adapt his tactics to accommodate Patterson's new role. The Toffees would likely need to switch to a more attacking formation to take advantage of Patterson's strengths.

Conclusion

The possibility of deploying Nathan Patterson in a more advanced role is a tantalizing one for Everton. His versatility, attacking acumen, and defensive solidity make him a viable option to replace Seamus Coleman on the right flank. However, the Toffees will need to carefully consider the challenges and make tactical adjustments to ensure that the switch is a success.