Should Rangers full-back Nathan Patterson be called up to the Scottish national team for the Euros? Ibrox legend Ally McCoist certainly thinks so.
Super Ally was speaking ahead of a bumper Scottish Cup weekend with the situation surrounding Patterson taking centre-stage after an Ibrox Covid ban appeal freed him up for the visit of Celtic.
But away from matters domestic, McCoist believes that Patterson should be involved with the Scotland national team come the summer.
“I would, yes, I certainly would,” said McCoist [BT Sport].
“Scotland have done fantastic (sic) and it is brilliant for us that we are back at a major tournament for the first time since 1998.
“But why not, if he is good enough? And Patterson certainly looks good enough.
“I just think in certain areas we have to pick our best players, it is as simple as that and at this moment in time Patterson looks as though he could be part of the squad.
“He is still very young and has a long way to go and but I certainly wouldn’t have any problems throwing him into that squad.”
Cue angry Celtic fans or members of the Tartan Army.
The debate over whether the 19-year-old full-back should be included continues to rage with stories about Patterson dominating the news agenda in Scottish football.
Whether it’s Stevie G suggesting a Covid ban could hamper his development at a pivotal time in his career, or even in Rangers appealing a six-match suspension, Patterson has grabbed the headlines.
Not only that, but that appeal has Patterson available for the weekend’s Scottish Cup clash with Celtic and the Parkhead club seemingly terrified that this young kid will be pitched in for the match.
John Kennedy’s been expertly auditioning for the Parkhead role full time by greetin’ about it this week, whilst John Collins suggested the Gers only appealed the ban so he’d be available for the match.
That’s despite the appeal being launched two days before Rangers drew Celtic in the Cup.
Not only that, but Patterson & Scotland remains a highly contentious subject with some ridiculous commentary amid the debate – not least from Motherwell boss Graeme Alexander.
With every hint of sincerity, and in a staunch defence of Scotland number one Stephen O’Donnell, Alexander claimed the Fir Park full-back was the best in the country. Okily dokily.
Whatever happens, Patterson has had an explosive start to life in football and if he’s making these sorts of waves as a teenager it bodes well when it comes to the next few years.
But maybe he can avoid future headaches by not going to late night parties in Glasgow’s west end should the opportunity arise again in the not-so-distant future.
Rangers certainly have a prime asset on their hands in Patterson and the youngster impressed against another Scottish talent who’s been extensively linked to the Premier League.
