Evan Ferguson enjoyed a fine breakout season for Brighton last time out.
Brighton striker Evan Ferguson made his Premier League debut in the 2021/22 season as a substitute against Fulham in February. Last season, the 18-year-old made 19 appearances in the competition, and netted 6 times.
Ferguson is very much a key figure in the Brighton first-team squad now, and will expect even more game time this time around, despite the recent club-record signing of Joao Pedro.
Roberto De Zerbi has huge faith in the teenager, who got 10 goals in all competitions last season. The Italian coach said his “improvement has been incredible. He’s playing like an old player but he is only 18,” as quoted by the Irish Mirror.
Ferguson is already far more than just a finisher. He has excellent technical ability, and can effectively get involved with his team’s build up play. There is certainly much more to come from the 6-cap Republic of Ireland international.
Discussing his future with BBC Sport, Ferguson has said, “you always try to beat your previous year. That is the way it needs to be. The manager strives for perfection. He is passionate and loves what he is doing…you have to be tuned in. You have to know everyone’s position. As a striker, you have to do a few more different things which you might not have to do for a different team.”
Ferguson’s insight into De Zerbi’s unusual and demanding expectations highlights just how forward-thinking and progressive Brighton’s football is at the moment.
Brighton’s next big pay day
With Brighton set to compete in the Europa League this season, Ferguson will have the chance to show his quality on the continental stage. If he continues to progress at the rate he has in the last 12 months then he will soon attract the attention of some huge clubs.
The south coast club have a good record of securing large fees for their most coveted players. Ferguson will likely bring in a huge sum in a future transfer window. Scouts have already suggested he could soon be worth £100 million, according to iNews.
For now, though, De Zerbi seems to be doing a brilliant job of guiding Ferguson’s development. He will also be learning plenty from experienced forward Danny Welbeck. He is also loved by the fans at the Amex Stadium. Brighton is the perfect place for the young Irishman to be.