Newcastle must prepare move for Ferguson after Shearer comparison

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Veteran Brighton defender James Milner has noted the similarities between Evan Ferguson and Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer.

Evan Ferguson put Newcastle to the sword on Saturday, scoring a hat-trick as the Seagulls beat Eddie Howe’s side 3-1 at the Amex Stadium.

James Milner is seeing Ferguson’s development close up at Brighton, and believes that the 18-year-old striker has the potential to be a future star.

Speaking to The Athletic, the 37-year-old said of Ferguson, “he is still so young but what a player for us and the ceiling is very high for him. I did play with Alan Shearer. They are both very good goal scorers.”

Whilst Milner didn’t make an especially detailed comparison between Ferguson and Shearer, the fact that the Irish youngster is already being discussed in such a context shows just how highly rated he is. 

Milner was indeed a teammate of Shearer’s in his time at St James’ Park. The pair spent two seasons together on the books of the Tyneside club, before the all-time Premier League top goalscorer announced his retirement. 

Newcastle must be ready to launch Ferguson move

Ferguson looks to have all the makings of an elite goalscorer himself. Despite his youth, the 6’2” forward already has the physicality to dominate Premier League defenders and is a composed, instinctive finisher. The £20,000-a-week ace is also capable of dropping deep and linking play effectively.

Newcastle were well aware of the threat that the Republic of Ireland international poses prior to this weekend. As reported by 90min, the Magpies scouted the Brighton teenager towards the end of last season. 

Howe may well have Ferguson identified as a potential future transfer target. Newcastle need to ensure that they are well-placed to win the race for his signature when the time comes. The club now have the financial muscle to compete for the top players and Ferguson looks destined to fall into that bracket.