Meath Sports Awards... Precocious talent Ferguson makes the Premier grade at Brighton

Getting into a Premier League team is a massive achievement for any player at any stage of a career - and Evan Ferguson has managed to do just that while still only a teenager.

The feat is a testament to the young player's abilities. It's also an indication of his willingness to knuckle down and work hard on becoming the best he can be.

From Bettystown Evan is the son of former professional soccer player Barry Ferguson who works with the FAI. Evan has displayed an extraordinary maturity in his career to-date. He played for St Kevin's Boys before he was signed by Bohemians, making his first-team debut against Chelsea in a friendly when he was just 14. He also became the youngest player in the history of Bohs to turn out for the club in a league game.

It wasn't long until the scouts came knocking. After just a few competitive outings for Bohs, Evan was signed by Brighton & Hove Albion early last year. He made a big impact in a number of the club's u-23 games and was nominated for a Premier League 2 'Player of the Month' award.

Last August he made his first-team debut when he came on as substitute in a 2-0 away win over Cardiff City in the EFL Cup. Since then he has appeared for the Seagulls as a substitute in FA Cup games against teams such as West Brom and Spurs.

Early this year Evan came on as a substitute against Burnley in the Premier League taking another major step in his career. He has represented the Republic of Ireland at a number of levels including the u-21 grade - all while he is still only a teenager.

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