Ferguson plays his part in dramatic Irish victory

Evan Ferguson can today reflect on another milestone in his fledgling soccer career after he helped the Republic of Ireland u-21s to a dramatic victory over Sweden in the European Qualifiers.

Ferguson, who is from Bettystown, came on in the second-half as Jim Crawford's team defeated Sweden 1- 0 with a 92nd goal scored by Ollie O'Neill.

Ferguson will now be returning to Brighton & Hove Albion the club he signed for almost a year ago now.

Brighton persuaded the talented young player to sign for them even though Liverpool were also understood to be very interested in acquiring the talented youngster.

Evan is a son of Barry Ferguson who was with Coventry City, Colchester Utd, Hartlepool Utd and Northampton Town before returning home to turn out for a number of clubs in the League of Ireland. He has since worked as a development officer with the FAI.

Evan played for St Kevin's Boys before going on to sign for Bohemians. He turned out for the Gypsies in a friendly against Chelsea when he was only 14, an indication of his precocious talent.

He has played for the Republic of Ireland at u-15 and u-17 levels graduating to the u-21s and helping them to victory over the Swedes last night.

The towering teenage centre-forward joined Brighton from Bohemians in January 2021 and has scored a number of times in Premier League 2 outings.

He made his senior debut for Albion in August 2021, coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup second round.

In August Ferguson was called into the Irish u-21 squad for games against Bosnia & Herzegovina and Luxembourg. The same level where his father won six caps in 2000.

Evan made his debut at that level when he came on as a substitute against B & H, a match the Irish won 2-0.