Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler says Evan Ferguson will not leave the club in January but must “accept” his role at the club.
The Republic of Ireland international has started just one Premier League game this season, with Danny Welbeck, Georginio Rutter and Joao Pedro seemingly ahead in the striking pecking order.
Ferguson, 20, was hailed as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young strikers after bursting onto the scene as a teenager but an injury which saw him miss five months of last season has slowed his trajectory.
His reduced minutes have seen the Irishman linked with a loan move away but Hurzeler insists the youngster will remain at the Amex Stadium for the time being.
“I don’t know from where this information comes because I said to Evan that I am happy he is here with the team,” said Hurzeler.
“I am happy how he is training, what shape he is in physically, mentally. Of course, he is a young player and needs game time.”
Ferguson has scored once from his seven Premier League appearances so far this term, with his only goal coming from the bench in a 2-2 draw with Wolves last month.
Hurzeler, who arrived in the summer, added that while Ferguson is disappointed to not be in the team currently, the German challenged him to be ready when his time comes.
“Accept your role and make sure you bring yourself in the mood and the shape that, when you get the chance, you are ready,” said Hurzeler.
“It is exactly that which I demand from Evan and also what I said to him.
“I never said anything to him about a loan or anything like this.”
