Nathan Patterson reckons making his European debut for Rangers on Thursday night is proof that academy kids can make the grade at Ibrox.
The 19-year-old right-back deputised for captain James Tavernier in Poznan and although he’ll be back on the bench at Tannadice tomorrow, there’s every chance he’ll feature again in the near future with Rangers facing six games before they take on Celtic on January 2.
Patterson is relishing the opportunity and admitted watching Tavernier in training every day is helping him massively.
He said: “It’s great. Being side by side with him at training, Tav talks me through it and when I’m finding it tough, I go to him for advice.
“He was good before the game yesterday, making sure I was ready for it and gave me a good confidence boost.
“It’s been great to be a part of a really strong team this season. I really thought we could do well and we’ve started off great, so I hope we can keep the form up.
“I started in the academy and I’m a first-team player now, so I’ve obviously shown there’s a pathway there for everyone if you’re willing to work for it.
“The gaffer has had good chats with me. He’s told me I just need to keep my head down and take any opportunity that comes my way.”
The teenager knows that dislodging Tavernier will be a tall order but insisted he isn’t interested in going out on loan.
Patterson said: “You get the first start and just want to do well and hopefully get a few more games. I just need to be ready whenever.
“Rangers are the club I want to be at. I don’t want to be anywhere else. I’m just ready for any opportunity that comes my way.”
