Evan Ferguson and Sammie Szmodics facing weeks out with ankle injuries

Meanwhile Gavin Bazunu is edging closer to a return to full fitness as the goalkeeper was named in the Southampton U21s starting line-up for their Premier League 2 clash against Fulham.

Fri, 10 Jan, 2025 - 18:34

Andrew Horgan

Republic of Ireland strikers Evan Ferguson and Sammie Szmodics are both facing weeks on the sidleines with ankle injuries.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler admitted on Friday that he is not expecting to see Ferguson back in action for "some more weeks" as he continues to struggle with his knock.

The 20-year-old had been linked with a loan move to West Ham United, Fulham and Arsenal during this January transfer window due to a lack of game-time for the Seagulls this season.

Ferguson has made just two Premier League starts so far this campaign and that will not change for the forseeable future as Hurzeler confirmed that they "cannot say clearly" when the Bettystown native will next be available for selection.

"Evan is doing okay, not perfectly, but he is doing okay. I think it will take some more weeks until he returns," said Hurzeler.

“I hope it goes faster, but I cannot say clearly when he will be back, so we have to be patient.”

Szmodics could also be set for a spell out after picking up an ankle knock in last weekend's draw at Fulham.

Speaking on Friday, Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna said: "We don't know how long he will be out, to be honest.

"Hopefully it won't be a very, very serious injury, but he is in a boot at the minute with damage to his ankle.

"He will be assessed on Monday to get a little bit of a clearer picture on where he is at."

Meanwhile Gavin Bazunu is edging closer to a return to full fitness as the goalkeeper was named in the Southampton U21s starting line-up, along with former Cork City midfielder Joe O'Brien Whitmarsh, for their Premier League 2 clash against Fulham.