Rangers right-back Nathan Patterson has admitted it is “nice” to be linked with English Premier League teams, but he claims he is totally focused on playing.

Everton were believed to have had an £8m bid rejected by the Light Blues for the 19-year-old in the summer, while Manchester United have been linked with the fullback in recent days.

When asked about his thoughts regarding the rumours, Patterson said he was concentrating on his football:

“That was obviously nice to see that teams are interested but I am only interested in playing football. That’s the stuff that comes with it and I am not really aware of anything that happens, I just go on the pitch and do my thing and let the outside talk. You need to keep your feet grounded and just focus on your football and that’s what I have been doing. In football you have media everywhere now, and you have everyone’s opinions.”

“Sometimes you just need to block that out and focus on yourself, surround yourself with the right people and I feel as if I have done that. I have a good group of friends, good teammates and family also who keep pushing me on to do well. I have been working really hard with all the coaches that have been helping me along the way and any time I get the opportunity I need to make sure I am ready to prove myself. I feel as if I have done that but I need to keep pushing on and hopefully get more opportunities.”

The teenager’s excellent performances mean there will inevitably be interest from other teams but, at this stage, no club has come close to matching the Gers’ valuation of the player.

Although there will be plenty of supporters out there that believe Patterson shouldn’t be sold no matter the price, the financial wellbeing of the club also has to be considered.

If either Everton or United do table an offer that matches their demands, Rangers will, undoubtedly, have to consider selling up. We are not at that stage yet though.