At a glance
- Evan Ferguson tipped to leave Brighton this summer
- Richard Dunne delivers blunt Evan Ferguson verdict as the former Ireland captain urges the Brighton striker to leave for regular football.
- Fabian Hurzeler still believes Ferguson can shine at Albion
Former Republic of Ireland captain Richard Dunne believes Evan Ferguson’s long-term future may lie away from Brighton & Hove Albion as the young striker battles to rediscover momentum following another injury-disrupted campaign.
Ferguson endured a frustrating spell during his loan move to AS Roma where flashes of quality were overshadowed by persistent fitness problems. The Ireland international scored three goals and provided two assists across 16 Serie A appearances while also netting twice in the Europa League.
An ankle injury sustained during a Europa League clash in Stuttgart last January ultimately brought Ferguson’s campaign to an early end. The 21-year-old later underwent surgery and is now working towards a full recovery in time for pre-season.
Ferguson Facing Uncertain Brighton Future
Despite being contracted at Brighton until 2029 questions continue to surround Ferguson’s role at the Amex Stadium. Veteran striker Danny Welbeck remains Fabian Hurzeler’s preferred option up front while younger attacking talents including Georginio Rutter, Charalampos Kostoulas and Stefanos Tzimas continue to push for opportunities.
Read more: Adam Webster Will Leave Brighton at the End of the Season
Richard Dunne Delivers Blunt Evan Ferguson Verdict
Speaking to Sussex World via Premier League Predictions, former defender Richard Dunne admitted he believes Ferguson may now need a move away from Brighton in order to reignite his development.
“Yes, I think he will need to leave Brighton this summer for sure.
“He is still a young and very promising player, but these injuries aren’t helping his progression. For a striker especially, you need to be playing games regularly to build confidence and get into a rhythm of scoring goals and contributing to the team.”
Dunne also stressed how repeated setbacks can damage a striker’s momentum and limit their understanding with team-mates on the pitch.
“When you’re having these niggling injuries, it takes time to get back up to speed in any game, especially in the striker position.
“You want to gain as much momentum as possible to be at your best and get a good run of games together because that builds confidence.
“Also from a team perspective, the more you play, the more understanding you have with your team-mates.”
Also read: Fabrizio Romano Provides Update on Amario Cozier-Duberry’s Future
Ireland Still Counting on Ferguson
There remains strong belief in Ferguson’s long-term potential both for club and country. Dunne praised the positive signs shown during the striker’s spell in Italy and insisted the forward still has a major role to play for the Republic of Ireland.
Again speaking to Sussex World via Premier League Predictions, Dunne said:
“Yes, Evan had really promising signs at Roma and this looked a good move for him.
“For Ireland as well they need him back fit and raring to go as the team are now looking at youngsters to build their future around and Evan Ferguson definitely has a part to play.
“But looking at the short-term, Evan needs a place where he can play regularly and once fit enjoy a good run of games. It looks unlikely that Brighton will be that club.
“I hope these injuries stop because Evan burst onto the scene and definitely has the potential to play top-flight football.”
Ferguson joined Brighton from Bohemians FC in 2021 and has since registered 17 goals and six assists in 80 first-team appearances for the Seagulls.
Fabian Hurzeler Still Backing Ferguson
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler has meanwhile continued to back the young striker and believes he can still make a significant impact on the south coast.
Speaking earlier this year, Hurzeler said:
“Every player who has a contract has a future. We all know what Evan is capable of doing. He proved it so many times playing for this club.
“He had some really good games for Roma, he scored some goals and played some really good matches. We are all happy for when he’s back because then he can have a big impact on our game.”
Follow all the latest Brighton & Hove Albion news through Read Brighton.
