On the subject of impressive fullbacks, yet another sterling display from Nathan Patterson has given Steven Gerrard yet another ‘problem’ as well.

With no sign ‘yet’ of the Tavernier/Patterson combo we were promised, the 19-year old’s display against Dunfermline on a rare start was absolutely no surprise, and without any question Nathan Patterson has become one of the best RBs in the SPL.

Some believe the best, period, rather fickle-minded to forget Tavernier’s stunning season last term, but it’s true the captain has struggled for form this calendar year and this season especially.

Patterson continues to develop at an alarming rate – he’s reminding us very much of a young Alan Hutton, but with the ability to defend too.

That’s right, the ability to attack, dribble, cross, and defend – there’s no denying despite being around a decade younger than Tav, Patterson reads the game a tonne better, and while the first choice RB cannot be discounted for his contribution, on current form, his deputy more than shades it.

Of course, it’s one thing doing it v Dunfermline, another doing it in the UEL qualifiers. But then there’s another one altogether doing it in the UEL group stage and Patterson’s already been there, and scored, not to mention playing for his country.

Patterson’s the real deal, and while we know Tavernier’s a Stevie stalwart and has about 0% chance of not starting in Armenia, nevertheless, the manager will know that Patterson’s the one in form right now.

Could our manager really pitch the 19-year old in at the captain’s expense?

Time will tell.