Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler: I'm sure Evan Ferguson can come back stronger

BACK STRONGER: Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler insists Evan Ferguson can have a bright future at the club after injury cut short his loan spell in Italy. Pic: Paolo Bruno/Getty Images.

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler insists Evan Ferguson can have a bright future at the club after injury cut short his loan spell in Italy.

Ferguson has spent the season with Roma but will miss the rest of the campaign after undergoing an ankle operation.

Hurzeler has suggested the Republic of Ireland forward would be welcome back at the Seagulls next year.

"Every player who has a contract has a future. We all know what Evan is capable of doing," he said ahead of his side's trip to Sunderland.

"He proved it so many times playing for this club. He had some really good games for Roma, he scored some goals...we're all happy when he is coming back because he can have a big impact on our game."

On the early end to the 21-year-old's time at Stadio Olimpico, he said: "It's not great for him, it's bad for everyone. But 100 per cent, he will come back stronger.

"We'll give him the support he needs. I'm sure he has the mindset that wants to come back stronger and hopefully it doesn't take that long."