Evan Ferguson backed to 'be a true great' for Brighton by Steve Sidwell, who says striker has 'all the attributes'

Evan Ferguson has been backed to "be a true great" at Brighton by former midfielder and academy coach Steve Sidwell, ahead of their match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night – live on TNT Sports.

Sidwell worked with the Republic of Ireland striker during his time at the club’s flourishing youth set-up, which has seen a raft of youngsters progress through to the first team in recent years.

Ferguson, 19, has scored six goals in 18 Premier League appearances this season, which included his first career hat-trick in a 3-1 victory over Newcastle.

“I worked with Evan at an early age and one thing that really struck me with him was that he wasn't fazed at all in any scenario,” Sidwell told TNT Sports.

“Whatever moment that was, on either the training pitch or in games, he was always destined to get to the first team.

“He's got all the attributes; he's a team player, holds the ball up really well, and there is still so much more potential to come.”

Ferguson has been the latest in a series of Brighton players linked with a more away from Amex, with Chelsea reportedly interested in the forward.

The Seagulls have taken steps to secure one of their most prized assets after tying down Ferguson a to a new contract in November which runs until 2029.

Sidwell is hopeful that the 19-year-old can live up to his potential on the south coast first before moving to pastures new.

“There are definitely going to be some suitors, as we know what Brighton can produce in terms of talent and then selling players at a profit," he explained.

“There’s proof in the pudding, but hopefully he'll be wearing a Brighton shirt for long periods to come because he could definitely be a true great at this football club.”

Roberto De Zerbi’s side will be looking to stretch their unbeaten run to five matches in all competitions when they face Wolves.

The Seagulls sit eighth in the Premier League table with 31 points from 20 games and remain within striking distance of the European qualification places.

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Brighton & Hove Albion v Wolverhampton Wanderers will be live on TNT Sports 1 and ultimate with coverage from 19.00 on Monday, January 22 ahead of kick-off at 19:45.

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