Major Brighton injury blow confirmed ahead of Man Utd Premier League clash as ‘great’ player ‘ruled out’

Brighton and Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson has been ruled of the Republic of Ireland’s next two Euro 2024 qualifying matches with a knee injury as the player now faces a race to be fit for the Seagulls trip to Old Trafford.

Manchester United welcome Roberto De Zerbi’s side to the Theatre of Dreams on Saturday, September 16 in the first game for both of the Premier League sides following the international break.

Ferguson has emerged as a key player for Brighton over the last 12 months. The 18-year-old made 19 appearances and scored six goals for the south coast club last term and has hit the ground this campaign with four goals in four appearances. Three of those came as the Seagulls blew away Newcastle United at the Amex Stadium last weekend as the hosts picked up a 3-1 victory.

He had earned a call-up to the Republic of Ireland side for their Euro 2024 qualifying matches at home to France and away to the Netherlands on Thursday and Sunday.

However, his nation has confirmed he picked up an injury against the Magpies which will keep him out of both games. Ferguson was withdrawn after 81 minutes last weekend and replaced by former Manchester City and Liverpool midfielder James Milner.

A statement from the Republic of Ireland national team confirmed: “Republic of Ireland striker Evan Ferguson has been ruled out of the two Euro 2024 qualifiers against France and the Netherlands.

“The Brighton forward sustained a knee injury in the 3-1 home win over Newcastle United on Saturday. Ferguson reported for international duty on Sunday, but after assessment from the Ireland medical team, has been ruled out of both fixtures.”

It is unclear if Ferguson will be fit in time to face United but a potential absence would give Erik ten Hag’s side one less attacking threat to worry about.

Speaking about the striker, Brighton boss De Zerbi said last weekend: “He can become big, big, big. His qualities are enough to become a great player. He can become one of the best, the top scorer in Europe. He was born in 2004, he’s 18. I don’t know how many players are young, that score like him.”