Ulloa: We need to be patient with Ferguson

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Former striker impressed by Irishman's start to life in the top tier.

Charlie Hanson

2023-03-09T06:00:00Z

Leo Ulloa visited the Amex on Saturday, for our 4-0 win over West Ham.

Leo Ulloa admits he has been impressed by the way Evan Ferguson has made the step up to the Premier League, but insists the best way to help him improve is to keep the pressure off the youngster’s shoulders.

Having scored five first team goals in all competitions, the 18-year-old has been a regular starter in recent weeks under Roberto De Zerbi.

That game time, as well as the opportunity to train with the first team, can only be to the Irishman’s benefit, according to our former Argentinian forward.

“I think he’s very good because he is young, it’s difficult to be 18 and to play in the Premier League and score – you have to learn and learn.

Evan Ferguson has five first team goals and four assists in all competitions so far this campaign.

“But he is playing in the Premier League and he will improve a lot. He’s playing every week, training with the first team every day. He will improve every time and in two or three years he could be very good.

“It’s important to give him time and patience and not put pressure on him. You have to let him learn and give him space and that is the best way to make sure he can become the best version of himself.”

The striker’s most recent goal came in our 1-0 win at Stoke City in the Emirates FA Cup last week, securing our place in the quarter-finals.

That was followed up with a comfortable 4-0 victory over West Ham in the Premier League on Saturday, with Ulloa seeing no reason why Albion can’t start to hope for success in both the league and cup.

Leo Ulloa made 70 appearances for Albion over two spells.

“After what I have lived in football, I won the Premier League with Leicester, I can believe anything. Brighton are capable of qualifying for Europe it, I believe they can do it, or win a cup. I believe in that.

“It’s exciting to watch them and to see the football. I like the way Roberto [De Zerbi] plays, English football is different, it’s high intensity.

“Brighton play with the ball and attack all the time, but they defend with the ball.

“For that it’s always nice to see when you’re watching. It’s great watching Brighton. They’ve made the step up this season, I hope they get into Europe.”