Anthony Patterson

Anthony Patterson (born 10 May 2000) is an English professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for club Sunderland. He represents England U21 internationally.

Playing career
Patterson sat on the bench during the 2018–19 season and was given a contract in July 2019. He made his competitive first-team debut on 10 November 2020, in a 2–1 defeat at Fleetwood Town in an EFL Trophy group stage fixture. He made one further appearance in the 2021–22 season and having impressed head coach Lee Johnson, Patterson signed a new two-year deal, with the option of an additional year, in June 2021. Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said that he now considered Patterson "as a member of the first-team squad" with Lee Burge as the only other senior goalkeeper at the Stadium of Light.

Notts County (loan)
In September 2021, Patterson joined Notts County on loan until the end of October after Sunderland completed the signing of Ron-Thorben Hoffmann on loan from Bayern Munich on deadline day.

Return to Sunderland
His loan was extended until the end of January. However, Lee Johnson recalled the goalkeeper due to injury to Sunderland's second choice goalkeeper Lee Burge. On 31 December, Lee Johnson sent Patterson back to Notts County until end of the season. On 7 January, Patterson was recalled from Notts County with the possibility of the loan being resumed later in the window. Patterson established himself as Sunderland's first-choice goalkeeper for the second half of the season, featuring in Sunderland's successful play-off campaign as they defeated Wycombe Wanderers 2–0 in the final.

Patterson signed a new long-term contract with the club in June 2022, keeping him at the club until 2026.

International career
On 10 June 2023, Patterson made his England U21 debut as a half-time substitute during a 2–0 defeat to Japan at St. George's Park.

Style of play
Sunderland goalkeeper coach Lee Butler said that Patterson had great saving, handling and shot-stopping ability, with his weaknesses being coming for crosses, his distribution and his communication.

Honours
Sunderland
 * EFL League One play-offs: 2022

Individual
 * North East Football Writers' Association Young Player of the Year: 2022