Brighton’s Irish Star Evan Ferguson Set to Miss Premier League Opener, But Could Be Back for Republic of Ireland’s Clash with England

The Premier League gets back underway this evening, and throughout the season, Irish eyes will be keenly on the likes of Evan Ferguson and other Irish players in England’s top division.

Ferguson, who broke onto the scene the season before last, had to overcome ankle troubles last year and found himself out of former Brighton manager Robert De Zerbi’s matchday squads. This season is a new one under Brighton boss Fabian Huerzeler, and there is optimism that he can kick on after a stop-start season in his second year.

England legend Shearer, who has often been compared to the Meath native, believes that this could be the season to get Ferguson’s career back on track.

The Meath man has been sidelined since late last season with an ankle injury, which saw him miss Ireland’s June friendlies against Portugal and Austria. Ferguson did not travel to Japan for the Seagulls’ pre-season tour, but new Brighton boss Fabian Huerzeler is hopeful that he could be in contention for his side’s second game of the season.

Ferguson, who has been trying to overcome an ankle injury and missed a large chunk of the Premier League campaign last year, also missed Ireland's June games against Portugal and Austria. Ferguson appears to be on the mend now; however, Huerzeler, the new Brighton manager, admitted that the second game of the season could be a more suitable return for Meath native Ferguson.

“There are quite a few players who came back this week. I can’t say if they’re already ready for the first game at Everton. Pervis Estupiñán is back on the pitch, Tariq Lamptey is back on the pitch, and Ferguson will be too. So, it’s great news, but I’m not sure if they’re ready for the first match,” said Huerzeler on Friday.

“I think that the squad that played against Villarreal should be ready.”

The good news for Ireland fans is that if Huerzeler’s prediction is accurate and Ferguson’s injury troubles subside, he will be in contention to be part of Heimir Hallgrímsson’s squad for the games against England at the Aviva Stadium on September 7 and the Greece fixture at the same venue three days later.

Brighton’s Young Manager Confident in Squad’s Fitness

While Ferguson’s return is still uncertain, Huerzeler is confident that the rest of his squad is ready for the new season. He highlighted that the players who featured in Brighton’s pre-season friendly against Villarreal are all expected to be fit for the opener against Everton.

Brighton travel to Goodison Park to face Everton in their first game of the season before hosting Manchester United next weekend.

Manchester United’s Interest in Evan Ferguson

Meanwhile, the Irish striker, who is seen as one of the most coveted names in English football, has been linked to Manchester United. The Manchester Evening News claims that figures at Manchester United have been monitoring the Brighton talent, and a transfer bid could be made for Ferguson to join United.

The outlet says, “Could that open the door for United to swoop for Ferguson? The Manchester Evening News understands the Irish striker was being monitored by key figures at Old Trafford last season, while fresh reports doing the rounds suggest the 19-year-old is being priced up by United for a £50 million transfer.”

“If that is the case, though, United has to ease PSR concerns in the first instance. Ineos has spent £150 million+ on Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Joshua Zirkzee so far this summer, while they are continuing to pursue another midfielder to provide cover and competition for Casemiro.”

Ferguson’s Potential Impact on the Premier League

Ferguson’s return to full fitness will be a welcome boost for Brighton, who are hoping to build on their impressive performance last season. The young striker’s ability to score goals and create chances could be crucial for Brighton’s success this year.

With his potential impact on the Premier League and his ability to influence Ireland’s national team, all eyes will be on Ferguson’s recovery and his return to the pitch.

What’s Next for Evan Ferguson?

While Ferguson’s availability for Brighton’s opener is uncertain, he is expected to be back in action before the Republic of Ireland’s crucial clash with England next month. This makes him a key player for both club and country, and his progress will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.

The next few weeks will be crucial for Ferguson’s recovery, and his return to form could have a significant impact on both Brighton’s Premier League campaign and Ireland’s Nations League journey.