Everton defender Nathan Patterson ‘will eventually’ force his way past Seamus Coleman in the pecking order, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The highly-rated 20-year-old arrived at Goodison Park in a £16 million move from boyhood club Rangers during the January transfer window but is yet to find his best form.

What is the latest news involving Patterson?

Patterson signed a five-and-a-half-year contract upon his arrival at Everton yet failed to make a single appearance under the manager who signed him, Rafa Benitez.

The Spanish tactician was relieved of his duties just a couple of weeks after the right-back arrived on Merseyside, and he’s struggled for first-team opportunities since.

Frank Lampard was named as Benitez’s successor on deadline day and has selected the vastly experienced Coleman in all of his seven top-flight fixtures at the helm since.

As a result, Patterson has only made one outing for the Toffees during his short stay and was hauled off at half-time against National League outfit Boreham Wood in the FA Cup fifth round.

However, at 33, Coleman’s days at the top level are surely numbered, and Patterson could become the Irishman’s long-term heir when the current campaign is concluded.

What has O’Rourke said about Patterson?

Patterson became Rangers’ record ever sale after making just 27 appearances, increasing the expectation over his potential development.

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And although the youngster's made a slow start to life at Everton, O’Rourke believes he will ‘force his way’ into the starting lineup eventually.

He told GiveMeSport: “He's just got to keep pounding away and force his way in there. I think he will eventually, but I'm not sure anyone at Everton expected him to come in and play every week.”

Can Everton avoid relegation?

One potential reason behind Patterson’s lack of opportunities is Everton’s precarious position at the wrong end of the Premier League table.

At present, Lampard’s charges are sitting just one place and three points above the drop zone after winning two of their previous 12 top-flight encounters.

Everton do have up to three games in hand over some of their nearest rivals, though, and will be hoping to build some momentum following their 1-0 victory over Newcastle United the last time they were on league duties.

It remains to be seen if Everton can avoid the drop and maintain their Premier League status come May, but Patterson is perhaps going to have to remain patient for now in his quest for regular action.