Everton's Nathan Patterson says he's ready to play for Scotland against Armenia

Nathan Patterson is “in full contention” to return to the Scotland team to face Armenia on Wednesday and the Everton defender says he’s ready to play his part in the Nations League match.

Patterson was still recovering from an ankle injury last week when the national team lost their World Cup play-off against Ukraine but was with the squad and has been training ahead of the matches against Armenia and Republic of Ireland.

He’s now been given a clean bill of health and manager Steve Clarke will make a call on who will play on the right side of the team. Bologna youngster Aaron Hickey was given the nod against Ukraine and Stephen O’Donnell is also in contention.

Everton’s Patterson says he’s done the work and is ready to add to his eight international caps.

“I’ve trained since we came in the door, working on my fitness, doing some extra stuff with the sports scientists, and I think that’s me ready now,” he said.

Scotland coach Steven Naismith said: “Nathan’s been a gradual build-up but he’s now in full contention.

“He’s ticked all the boxes he’s needed to.”

Striker Lyndon Dykes has pulled out of the squad through injury and though Lewis Ferguson missed training with what was called a “minor” injury he will remain with the group.