Everton have been gifted a big injury boost involving right-back Nathan Patterson.

The Lowdown: Ankle injury

The 21-year-old has been out since September with an ankle injury and has missed the Goodison Park outfit’s last Premier League.

The right-back had previously started three defeats in a row in the top flight in his absence, he has been a huge miss for the Toffees.

The Latest: Could return next week

Speaking to the media in his pre-game press conference ahead of Everton’s match at home to Crystal Palace this afternoon, Frank Lampard has confirmed that. while Patterson will not be involved today, he will hopefully be fit for next week’s clash at Fulham.

The 44-year-old said of the Scottish defender: “He’s progressing, he’s training with us and will be fit for hopefully next week.”

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The Verdict: Big boost

It will no doubt be a big boost for Lampard and Everton if Patterson is to return against Fulham.

Hailed as ‘outstanding’ this season by journalist Josh Bunting, the Scotland international has put in some standout performances, notably in the Merseyside derby against Liverpool in September, when journalist Paul Brown claimed that the youngster was ‘absolutely tremendous’, ‘phenomenal’ and ‘one of the best players on the pitch’.

Patterson has ranked as the Toffees’ fourth-best performer in the Premier League so far this term, and no player in the squad has averaged more tackles (four) per game than him (WhoScored).

Everton are a much better side with him in it, as evidenced by their recent slump during his convalescence, and will no doubt welcome his return should he play against Fulham next week.