Brighton and Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson continues to be touted for a potential January loan exit, with Sunderland among the clubs mentioned as prospective suitors.
The Irishman is widely recognised as one of the most precocious young attacking talents in the Premier League, but has struggled for consistent game time so far this season and has been limited to just 215 minutes of top-flight action, scoring only once.
It is within this context that several outlets, including The Telegraph, have suggested he could be allowed to depart the Amex Stadium on a temporary basis in the new year. To that end, Sunderland have been name-checked as admirers, as have Leeds United and Celtic.
But how likely is it that Ferguson will be allowed to leave Brighton, and what have the club’s hierarchy said about his future? We’ve taken a closer look below.
Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton manager
Speaking in a recent press conference, Brighton boss Hurzeler said: “I don’t know from where this information [rumours of Ferguson’s exit] comes because I said to Evan that I am happy he is here with the team. I am happy with how he is training and what shape he is in physically and mentally. Of course, he is a young player and needs game time.”
The German also said it was normal for players to be disappointed if they are not selected to start, but that it was important Ferguson maintained a good attitude. He added, “Accept your role and make sure you bring yourself in the mood and the shape that, when you get the chance, you are ready. It is exactly that which I demand from Evan and also what I said to him. I never said anything to him about a loan or anything like this.”
In an interview with talkSPORT, Brighton chief Barber also weighed in on the matter; he said, “Evan’s a really important part of the squad. Sometimes mischievous rumours emerge from various strange places and one or two journalists will buy into those ideas, put out there by one or two other clubs, perhaps in some cases.
“But Evan’s very happy; we’re very happy with Evan; we expect him to be an important part of the squad throughout the season. Unfortunately, sometimes in this business we know that the rumour mill and the noise on the outside are stuffs you have to ignore.”
