Everton have had their fair share of injury problems over the last 12 months but are comfortably competing in the Premier League this season after their relegation struggles, with a reliable source now gifting supporters more good news.

What's the latest?

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Nathan Patterson could return to action sooner than expected after sustaining an ankle injury whilst on international duty with Scotland this month.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT:

“I did speak to my source on his injury, and there’s some positivity that he might be back sooner than six weeks, more sort of four to five weeks.

“So, we’ll have to see the full impact of that one and how quickly he recovers, but it’s not all doom and gloom, there’s a bit more positivity that he might come back sooner than first expected.”

It's a boost for Lampard

There is no doubt the news that the young Toffees right-back could return sooner rather than later will be a big boost for Frank Lampard, as Patterson has been a standout performer in the team since taking over the role from Seamus Coleman.

The 20-year-old Scotsman has made the position his own despite having big boots to fill in replacing the club captain, and over his first seven Premier League outings has proved that he is now a key player to the team.

Patterson has created one big chance, making 1.3 interceptions, four tackles, 2.7 clearances and has won six duels per game, proving that he is a dominant presence on the right side of the pitch and his inclusion has contributed to Everton's improved performances over the season so far.

For comparison, no player in the Goodison ranks has made more successful tackles a game this term with Amadou Onana next up, although a considerably way behind on 2.6.

The £15k-per-week talented youngster's influence has not gone unnoticed either as Danny Murphy lavished praise on Patterson during an analysis of his performance against Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby:

"This young lad, Nathan Patterson, seems to have the lot. He is only 20, he came in January, physically, he is very, very good.

"He's got this desire to get forward and have an impact on the game, which I think is great. His defensive work is good, you can see the strength to keep the ball under pressure.

"He is a diamond, they really have got themselves a good player in the market. He is a terrific young player."

With that being said, the return of Patterson will be warmly welcomed by both the manager and supporters when he does recover from his injury as he is already shaping up to be a huge future prospect for Everton and has come at the perfect time as Coleman nears the end of his career.