RAFA Benitez insists the capture of Scotland right-back Nathan Patterson can help Everton challenge for silverware.
Patterson, 20, made the switch to Goodison Park from Rangers on Tuesday for a fee in the region of £12 million, plus add ons.
Everton manager Benitez has also recruited Ukraine left-back Vitalii Mykolenko, 22, from Dynamo Kyiv and the Spaniard is adamant that the two young players have the quality and drive to ensure the Toffees can become a force in the English game.
Benitez, whose team currently sit 15th in the Premier League, said: “If you analyse my teams, they are aggressive, they go on the front foot and press, and try to regain the ball high up the pitch, create chances and score goals.
“And at the same time, keep the balance. Keeping the balance between defence and attack is key for winning something. Not just winning games, winning trophies.
“That is the style I want to install here. Bringing in these two young players with energy, they can go forward and attack, is key for the future of the club.
“At the same time I hope they can give us fresh legs and faces to improve the competition.
“And thinking about the future, I like to see Everton growing and improving – and improving the winning mentality.
“Not just being in a comfortable position where people are more relaxed.
“The big issue is to create a winning mentality that will allow you to compete in the future.
“That is young players coming in, hungry players who want to be here and fight for the shirt and give everything on the pitch.”
Former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss Benitez, however, insists the players will need time to bed in.
Patterson has made the switch on the back of 25 appearances for Rangers and six outings for his country.
Benitez, speaking to Everton TV, added: “Nathan and Vitalii have the characteristics we are looking for – players who like to go forward and provide crosses to the players up front.
“I don‘t want to put them under pressure because they are young and need to know the Premier League. But these players are the future of the club, for sure.”
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