It wasn’t that long ago that Irish striker Evan Ferguson was a safe reserve of €100 million for Brighton, but from being Chelsea’s dream target just over a year ago, injury problems and fitness problems have created a completely different reality for the 20-year-old.
Brighton striker Ferguson loaned to Roma
Striker Evan Ferguson has signed for Italian club Roma on a season-long loan from Brighton.
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The Irish international is trying to rebuild his career after injuries and form problems have seen him drop down the hierarchy at Brighton. “Evan has had a challenging period over the last year and a half, with a lot of minor injuries,” Brighton coach Fabian Hurzeler told the BBC.
“He has a great desire to play regularly and this is an exciting opportunity in a strong league with the possibility of European Cup football.”
Ferguson was on loan at West Ham in the latter part of last season, but only made eight appearances and one start under then-manager Graham Potter.
On social media, Ferguson has been pictured meeting Roma fans and signing autographs before his transfer to the Serie A club.
The 20-year-old was nominated for Premier League Young Player of the Year after a brilliant 2022/23 season, during which he scored nine goals and made his debut for the Irish national team.
However, since November 2023, he has only scored one goal for club teams, and it was unlikely that he would have a central role under Hurzeler at the start of the current season.
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Key Points:
- Season-long loan to Roma
- Wants regular playing time after injury problems
- Previous West Ham loan was unsuccessful
- Great potential after impressive 2022/23 season
