Patterson delighted to chip in with assist
NATHAN PATTERSON was pleased he was able to make an impact for Rangers as he produced an impressive performance in the win over Lincoln Red Imps.
The right- back made his second Europa League appearance for Steven Gerrard’s side as he came off the bench during the first half of the 5- 0 victory on Thursday.
Patterson has earned his spot in the Ibrox first team squad this term and he once again didn’t look out of place with an accomplished showing in Gibraltar.
He told RangersTV: “It was obviously great and any time you play with the first team you need to enjoy it and go and embrace it. I thought I done that and I really enjoyed it.
“I always try and do well and come on and make an impact and to get an assist is great. I am just happy with the win.
“Obviously being around [ the first team squad] every day you get more used to them, get more comfortable with them and it helps when you go on the pitch. You are more likely to do well.”
Patterson replaced striker Kemar Roofe late in the first half as captain James Tavernier moved into a more advanced role down the right flank.
The skipper had fired Rangers into the lead with a terrific free- kick and was given the second period off as the Govan side eased to a victory that sets up a third qualifying round tie with Willem II next week.
Patterson said: “He is doing really well. He has kicked on and he is playing really well just now. He is scoring goals, he is providing for the team and that is great.
“It was good [ to play alongside him]. When I came on, he kept on speaking to me, telling me where to go and making sure I was in the right place. It was obviously beneficial.”
Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard cleared up concern over fellow forward Kemar Roofe.
Roofe was replaced late in the first half after receiving treatment for a calf problem but Gerrard is confident it won’t be a long- term issue for the former Leeds and Anderlecht star.
He said: “Yes there is an issue but we’re hoping it’s not a big one.
“He said he felt a bit of tightness so hopefully he’s done the sensible thing and told us before it’s got worse.
“We’ll have a look at it in the next day or so. Hopefully, fingers crossed, he should be okay.”