Nathan Patterson is a lucky boy to be included in Scotland ’s Euro 2020 squad this early.
That’s according to former Scotland boss Craig Levein, who has no doubt the Rangers right back will go on to be a top player.
But he did admit that the Ibrox youngster's call-up has come very early.
The 19-year-old was one of three uncapped players included by Steve Clarke alongside Celtic ’s David Turnbull and Chelsea’s Billy Gilmour.
Patterson has less than 20 senior appearances under his belt but will be back up to first choice right back Stephen O’Donnell.
And Levein believes that just shows the trust Clarke has in him.
He told BBC Scotland: “As much as I’m a huge admirer of Nathan Patterson, I think it’s early for him. But he is a talent.
“What’s interesting about him is when I look at the squad of 26 players, there’s really only O’Donnell in front of him. If Stevie goes with a back five, he can play Ryan Fraser there.
“But he’s obviously got a lot of faith in young Nathan Patterson to have him as back up in that one key position.
“If needs be there might be a change of formation. I don’t think I’ve ever heard Steve say there’s only one system or ruled anything out.
“But coming back to Patterson, I think he’s going to be a top player. He’s really, really athletic and I think he’s got a great future in front of him.
“I don’t mean to be disrespectful but he’s a lucky boy. At his age to be included in the first Scotland squad to be announced for a major tournament in 23 years. I hope he does really well.”
