Rising Rangers defender Nathan Patterson insists he is letting speculation surrounding his future wash over him as he focuses on club and country.
The rampaging right-back started in the 2-1 win over Hibs on Sunday and will be aiming to get the nod against Israel in the crunch World Cup qualifier on Saturday night.
It comes after Everton had an £8m bid turfed out as Steven Gerrard was hell-bent on keeping hold of the 19-year-old despite significant Premier League interest.
Patterson admits having admirers is flattering but he is quick to point out he's only searching for self improvement in the short term Rangers and Scotland.
He said: “Yes, that was obviously nice to see that teams are interested but I am only interested in playing football.
“That’s the stuff that comes with it and I am not really aware of anything that happens, I just go on the pitch and do my thing and let the outside talk.
“You need to keep your feet grounded and just focus on your football and that’s what I have been doing.
“In football you have media everywhere now, and you have everyone’s opinions.
“Sometimes you just need to block that out and focus on yourself, surround yourself with the right people and I feel as if I have done that. I have a good group of friends, good team-mates and family also who keep pushing me on to do well.
“I have been working really hard with all the coaches that have been helping me along the way and any time I get the opportunity I need to make sure I am ready to prove myself.
“I feel as if I have done that but I need to keep pushing on and hopefully get more opportunities.”
