A report this week from the Telegraph said, "Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson is available on loan this January, with the very promising Republic of Ireland international currently unable to get game time under new manager Fabian Hurzeler."
Ferguson has struggled to hit the heights he reached when breaking onto the scene in 2022 due to injuries, but has now recovered from his troubles.
Goals for Brighton and Ireland have followed his comeback. However, there have been rumours his future may lie away from the Amex.
Hurzeler was asked about the topic in his pre-match press conference and admitted he didn't know anything about it.
"I don't know where this information comes from because I said to Evan that I am happy he is here with the team," the Brighton boss said on Thursday to the Argus.
"I am happy with how he is training and what shape he is in physically and mentally.
"Of course, he is a young player and needs game time."
"Accept your role, don't complain" 🗣️
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler says he has spoken to Evan Ferguson about his lack of game time but doesn't know where the reports about him leaving on loan came from 🔵 pic.twitter.com/X5KEXS3l6X
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) November 28, 2024
The Bettystown native is behind the pecking order of Danny Welbeck, Georginio Rutter, and João Pedro at Brighton. Hurzeler added further that Ferguson should fight to become a starter for the club.
"Accept your role and make sure you bring yourself in the mood and the shape that, when you get the chance, you are ready," the Brighton boss said.
"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 that."
Igor Julio is back in contention after a long layoff and has found himself back in the squad. Hurzeler wants Ferguson to copy the Brazilian's example and put himself in the same situation.
"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."
Brighton play Southampton tomorrow at 8 p.m.
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