'He's showing the will and strength to succeed' - Gasperini heaps more praise on Evan Ferguson

ROME SWEET ROME: Roma's Evan Ferguson celebrates scoring against Celtic. Pic: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire.

Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has again heaped praise on Republic of Ireland striker Evan Ferguson, saying he is showing “the will and the strength” to succeed at the Italian Giants.

It was only a matter of days ago that it was reported in Italy that the 21-year-old’a loan spell in Rome was set to be cut short and that he would return to Brighton & Hove Albion in January.

But his two first-half goals in their comprehensive 3-0 victory against Celtic in the Europa League at Parkhead last Thursday has seen the Bettystown native work his way back into Gasperini’s plans.

Ferguson made his 16th appearance for the club on Monday night and impressed in their 1-0 victory over Cesc Fabregas’ Como in what was the first time he’s played the entire 90 minutes plus for the Romans.

“He's a professional, you have to get the psychological part right quickly,” Gasperini told a press conference at the Stadio Olimpico post-match.

“He's showing the will and strength to succeed. He didn't score today, but he did what you expect of someone who wears the Roma shirt.

“When you have that kind of spirit, the fans follow you; that's the spirit I ask of all my players.

“He's young. Sometimes you wait for weeks, then you find the right key to get into their mindset and they turn things around.

“He scored two goals in Glasgow. He didn't score tonight but he was always there.

“We hope he can improve but if he plays with this physicality, which is his best quality right now, he can do very well.”