ROSS WILSON reckons Nathan Patterson's switch to Everton ticked all the right boxes for every party after he brought an emotional end to his Rangers career.
The right-back has penned a five-and-a-half year contract at Goodison Park and leaves Ibrox just months after helping his boyhood heroes clinch a historic 55th Premiership title.
Patterson was the subject of two bids from Everton last summer as boss Rafa Benitez sought to clinch a deal for one of the brightest talents in the British game.
The Toffees have now struck it lucky at the third attempt after agreeing a £12million package that sees Patterson break Rangers' transfer record after making just 25 appearances for the champions.
Sporting director Wilson was at the heart of the negotiations in recent days and believes the deal is one which suits all concerned as the 20-year-old gets set to take the next step in his career in the Premier League.
Wilson said: “Personally, Nathan is someone that I’ve placed a lot of faith in since I joined Rangers. We saw top potential in him and I’ve enjoyed working with him and seeing him develop every day.
“Nathan is supported brilliantly by his family and as Rangers fans, I know they are extremely proud of his Rangers achievements.
“In terms of the detail of the transfer, I have been in discussions with Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright for a number of weeks. It has been a pleasure to deal with Bill - a man who represents his club with genuine class.
"It is true that there were previous discussions last summer but we were always clear that in our model players will only leave at the right time and for the right number.
“We have now established a significant club record and there will be even further financial incentives for Rangers as Nathan’s Everton career evolves.
“We were very clear in these discussions that Nathan is a player and person who we hold in the highest regard and the deal had to represent a club record for Rangers.
“Since I joined the club, I’ve been clear that we would be strong in the market and our chairman and board have been prepared to reject some significant sums for our players, whilst we have all acknowledged that we would sell the right player at the right time for the right value. I must say in this case also, this is the correct destination.
“Our Academy staff can be proud of the role they’ve played in Nathan’s development. We are proud of Nathan, he leaves as a champion and I will follow every step of his career and journey and he will always be connected to Rangers. I am sure we will see him back supporting the lads at Ibrox soon.”
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