Everton could be in line to save millions as David Moyes outcast shines in newly released footage

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Everton were in action on Tuesday with a behind-closed-doors friendly against Port Vale at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

It was the first time David Moyes had put out a team at the new stadium and it came just days before the flight to the United States.

Moyes was keen to get Everton playing at the new stadium ahead of the official Premier League start in August.

And the 62-year-old got his wish and was even able to see his Everton side prevail for the first time this summer.

James Garner and Carlos Alcaraz got their names on the scoresheet, with Alcaraz scoring the first Everton goal at the new stadium.

However, there was one player for the Blues whose performance may have gone slightly under the radar.

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Nathan Patterson impresses for Everton against Port Vale

Once again, Nathan Patterson started the game at right-back, as Everton focus on signing a new left-back.

There is a huge opportunity for Patterson to grab this summer and potentially make himself the starting right-back under Moyes.

It is believed this season is make-or-break for Patterson at Everton following years of struggles on Merseyside.

But there were positive signs on Tuesday against Port Vale, with the Scot getting up and down the pitch in the footage that was released.

For the opening goal of the game, Patterson could be seen starting off the attack in his own half before whipping across a pinpoint pass across the pitch to Alcaraz.

The Argentine was able to finish the move off with a stunning finish, but the right-back showed an attacking threat which the Blues may not necessarily get with Jake O’Brien.

Speaking to the club’s media team earlier this summer, O’Brien admitted he would play right-back again this season if needed.

But there was an overriding sense that the Ireland international may now want to solidify himself in his natural central position.

Unless something dramatically changes during the Summer Series, Patterson is putting in some encouraging displays at right-back under Moyes this pre-season.

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Patterson could save Everton millions this summer

Everton have around £100m to spend this summer following the Friedkins’ takeover last December.

Around £27m of that has already been spent on Thierno Barry, and with so many positions to be filled, that £100m budget already seems tight.

Moyes is keen to add new full-backs to his squad following the departure of Ashley Young as a free agent.

However, a strong summer from Patterson could save the club a lot of money if he provides them with the confidence of being the starting right-back.

Moyes asked Patterson to step up last season, and it seems he may finally be doing that,

The footage from the Port Vale friendly was encouraging, but Moyes will want to see him do it over in the States against Premier League opposition.