Everton goalkeeper Asmir Begovic says Nathan Patterson will be ready to face Celtic today.

The former Rangers kid was hooked from International duty by Toffees boss Frank Lampard to take part in the Goodison Park side's trip to Australia rather than head to Turkey with Scotland. Begovic is convinced the £16m signing is destined to get to the top and he's well aware Patterson will have added incentive in tomorrow's friendly clash in Sydney.

The former Chelsea and Stoke City shot stopper said: “I'm sure Nathan will want to win the game for sure. We all know his connections to the blue side of Glasgow. Nathan is a young lad with huge potential. He's got a lot in front of him in his career. He can be one of the best right backs around. He's settled in really well here, he's a great lad and great character. He will do well, I'm sure."

Begovic knows Celtic will have plenty of backing in front of Ange Postecoglou's home crowd. But he said: “It will be a good test for us. Celtic are a very good team with a very good manager.

“I'm sure there will be a great atmosphere as well. There's always a bit of rivalry when teams from Scotland and England meet and there is the connection here with the Celtic manager as well. We're hoping to put on a good performance.