One of the hottest properties in the Premier League right now is the young Republic of Ireland striker Evan Ferguson.
The 18-year-old scored 10 goals in 25 games for Brighton in 2022–23, and he has started the new season with four in as many games, including a magnificent hat-trick against Newcastle.
The forward, however, hasn’t played for his nation during the break after suffering a knee injury in the victory over Newcastle.
The Netherlands defeated Ireland 2-1 on Sunday, and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk called Ferguson’s absence a “big blow” and a “promising striker” prior to the game.
Should things have turned out differently, the two might have been teammates at the club level.
Before deciding to join Brighton from Irish club Bohemians in 2021, Ferguson disclosed last year that he had participated in tryouts at a number of clubs, including Liverpool.
“Brighton likes to promote and give chances to players from their academy. Looking at the long term rather than the immediate term, I’d think, was the cause. So I would claim that this was the last justification.
Ferguson’s worries about Liverpool’s first-team development are legitimate, but the Reds have a better track record than some at developing excellent young talent.
Since Trent Alexander-Arnold made his breakthrough from the academy in 2017, players like Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliot, and Stefan Bajcetic have all stepped up to earn their spots in Jurgen Klopp’s first-team plans. Meanwhile, Jarell Quansah, who made his debut in Liverpool’s victory over Newcastle back in August, and Ben Doak appear to be positioned for significant roles this season.
Ferguson finally seems destined for success. The wonderkid was reportedly connected to high-profile moves to Arsenal, Manchester United, and Tottenham throughout the summer. Manchester City has also been mentioned as a team keeping tabs on his development.
