Former Newcastle and England captain Alan Shearer believes that Evan Ferguson is a phenomenal talent and that it is no surprise Premier League clubs are looking at signing Sammie Szmodics.
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.
"Without a doubt, he can kick on. We’ve seen what he can do," said Shearer at a promotional event for Guinness.
“But now he has to take it into the season and do it on a regular basis. I don’t know what’s gone on at Brighton or whether the manager didn’t fancy him.
“All I know is that I’ve seen phenomenal talent there. I’ve seen his stature, his movement, and what he’s like in front of the goal.
“I’m hoping, for his sake, he can have a really big season because I loved what I saw—the raw enthusiasm, the raw ability.
“It was disappointing, whatever it was—injuries or otherwise—that he couldn’t kick on and have a really good season, but I’m hoping this is the season for him.”
Sammie Szmodics of Blackburn Rovers during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match betwe en Blackburn Rovers and Cambridge United at Ewood Park on January 6, 2024 in Blackburn, England. (Photo by Gary Oakley/Getty Images)Another Ireland player who could potentially play in the Premier League next season is Sammie Szmodics. The Irish striker finished last season as the Championship top scorer with 27 league goals for Shearer’s old club, Blackburn.
According to reports in England, Ipswich Town are close to agreeing on a fee with Blackburn Rovers and are willing to pay approximately €12 million.
Shearer admits it wouldn't surprise him if the Ireland player did, in fact, join a Premier League side for the upcoming campaign.
“I saw him two or three times live last season. Newcastle played Blackburn in the Cup, and he was a constant threat at Ewood Park that night.
“For Blackburn to finish where they did in the championship, and for him to be the top scorer, was a remarkable achievement.
“It’s not a surprise to me that Premier League clubs, Southampton or whoever, have shown an interest.
“Whether that’s one for the end of the window, it wouldn’t surprise me if a deal was done with a Premier League club.”
