The Republic of Ireland could be facing a major injury concern ahead of next month’s World Cup play-off after Evan Ferguson emerged as a doubt for the crucial clash with Czechia.
As first reported by The42.ie’s Gavin Cooney, the striker has returned to parent club Brighton from Roma for further assessment on an ongoing ankle problem that has sidelined him since the start of the month.
Brighton and Roma are understood to be in discussions regarding Ferguson’s next steps, but his availability for Ireland’s play-off semi-final in Prague on 26 March is now uncertain.
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The ankle issue is part of an ongoing problem for the 21-year-old, who also missed Ireland’s November victories over Portugal and Hungary. Earlier this month, Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini revealed the extent of Ferguson’s struggles, explaining that the forward has suffered multiple ankle sprains and continues to battle recurring setbacks following previous surgery.
Ferguson has an ankle problem, the fourth sprain he’s suffered.
Last year, he was sidelined for a year due to ankle surgery, so this guy’s biggest challenges are of this nature. We’re trying to get him back on his feet, but every time he changes direction, he risks a small sprain.
Ferguson’s potential absence would represent a significant blow for Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson, who is already dealing with a growing injury list ahead of the international window.
Midfielder Josh Cullen has been ruled out after suffering an ACL rupture, while striker Adam Idah is also racing against time to recover from a hamstring injury.
With a place in the World Cup play-off final on the line, Ireland now face an anxious wait over the fitness of one of their most important attacking options.
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