Brighton boss dismisses Evan Ferguson loan reports and gives advice to Ireland striker

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has dismissed reports that Evan Ferguson is set to be loaned out in the January transfer window.

Reports in England this week suggested that Brighton were happy to let the Ireland striker go out on loan for the second half of the season.

But Hurzeler has quashed these rumours, telling the 20-year-old to knuckle down and wait for his chance.

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Speaking on Thursday morning, Hurzeler said: "I don't know where this information comes from because I told Evan that I am happy he is here with the team.

"I am happy how he is training, what shape he is in physically, mentally

"Of course, he is a young player and needs game time."

Behind Danny Welbeck, Georginio Rutter and Joao Pedro in the Seagulls' pecking order, Ferguson has made just one start in the Premier League this season.

But Hurzeler insists that opportunities will arise for the Bettystown man if continuing to work hard.

“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.

Hurzeler has advised Ferguson to take a leaf out of the book of Igor Julio, the Brazilian defender who has forced his way into the Brighton team.

"I said to Evan I'm happy he is here and how he is training. He needs game time. The same with Julio.

"The best example is Igor, no one expected Igor to play so much but he made himself ready and always trained hard. When he gets his chance he is there."

After the news of Ferguson's potential availability broke earlier this week, many clubs, including Fulham, Leicester, West Ham, Newcastle and Burnley, have been linked with the striker.

Ferguson was an 86th-minute substitution for Danny Welbeck in Brighton's 2-1 away victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium last weekend.

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