Nathan Patterson's move to Everton from Rangers was supposed to be a dream opportunity for the young Scottish right-back, but things have not panned out as he would have hoped.
Since making the switch to Goodison Park, Patterson has struggled to establish himself as a first-team regular, and recent reports suggest that things could be about to get even tougher for him.
Everton are reportedly clearing the decks in preparation for a major overhaul, and that means that Patterson could find himself further down the pecking order than he already is.
One of the main factors in Patterson's decline is the resurgence of Seamus Coleman, who has been reinstalled as the team's first-choice right-back. Patterson has made sporadic appearances, but he has failed to make a lasting impression on the team.
If the reports about Everton's clearout are true, Patterson could soon find himself facing even more competition for a starting spot. The team is supposedly interested in signing James Tavernier, who just so happens to be Patterson's former captain at Rangers.
Tavernier has been a key player for the Gers in recent years, helping the team win multiple domestic titles and even captaining the side in the process. He has consistently demonstrated his quality and leadership on the pitch, making him the kind of signing that would be a major coup for Everton.
However, from Patterson's perspective, the arrival of Tavernier would only serve to further complicate his already contentious situation. With Coleman established as the first choice and now Tavernier potentially joining the fray, Patterson could find himself relegated to a bit-part role at best.
Patterson's time at Everton has been underwhelming so far, but even he might not have expected things to take this turn. If Tavernier does end up making the switch, it is hard to see a scenario in which Patterson emerges as the winner.