Patterson replaced Aaron Hickey with 15 minutes remaining as Scotland secured their first World Cup victory in 36 years. His contribution was tidy, yet the limited involvement underlined how far he remains from being an automatic international starter.
At Everton, the picture is even less favourable. Since 28 March, Patterson has made four appearances for Scotland, while his only club outing was an 89th-minute substitute appearance in the 3-3 draw with Manchester City.
Patterson arrived from Rangers for £16m in January 2022, having been viewed as a long-term successor to Seamus Coleman. That succession plan has been repeatedly disrupted by serious injuries and the absence of a sustained run of matches.
The emergence of Jake O'Brien at right-back has made the problem more complicated. Moyes’ decision to use the centre-back in the position helped solve an immediate issue, but it also highlighted Everton’s need for a specialist option.
The club has reportedly been linked with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Raoul Bellanova and Guela Doue, while Patterson has previously been close to loan moves involving Sevilla and Genoa. A permanent exit is also becoming a realistic possibility if his path to regular football remains blocked.
Patterson’s performances for Scotland could still change the conversation. Sharp believes the tournament offers the 24-year-old a chance either to convince Moyes or attract clubs prepared to give him the minutes Everton cannot guarantee.
Scotland face Morocco on Friday, giving Patterson another opportunity to turn a cameo into momentum. Beyond that, the summer transfer window may decide whether his Everton story receives another chapter-or whether a fresh start becomes the clearest route to rescuing his stalled development.