BRIGHTON AND HOVE, U.K. - After a summer with some key departures, many expected Brighton to struggle this season. They have done just the opposite, winning nine points out of a possible 12 and scoring 12 goals. One player who has played a major role is Irish sensation Evan Ferguson. 

Now, it may be a bold statement to label him the Premier League’s next young star, but Ferguson has the ability to become just that. In only four games so far this season, Ferguson has scored four goals, including a hat trick against Newcastle. Keep in mind, last season Newcastle was tied with champions Manchester City for the least goals conceded in the Premier League. If that’s not enough, consider the fact that Ferguson has already nearly matched his goals tally from last season (he scored six goals in 19 Premier League appearances last season). That’s not bad for an 18-year-old.

His hat trick against Newcastle showcased his ability to do it all. His first goal was a prime poachers goal, his second was a sublime long distance shot where he took advantage of the space and time given to him and his third took advantage of lackadaisical defending. He was a constant nuisance for Newcastle’s defense. While this was just one game, he demonstrated exceptional movement, timing and shooting ability.

His performances have caught the eye of numerous people in England, including Alan Shearer, the Premier League’s leading goal scorer, who labeled Ferguson a “special talent.”

If he keeps up his performances, Brighton and Ireland will have an exceptional talent on their hands. Evan Ferguson is definitely a young star to watch.