Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson out of Republic of Ireland squad through injury

The 18-year-old picked up a knee injury after scoring his first Premier League hat-trick in Brighton's 3-1 home victory over Newcastle United last weekend.

Ferguson linked up with the Irish squad ahead of qualifiers against France on Thursday and the Netherlands on Sunday, but the striker has since been ruled out of both fixtures following a medical assessment.

A statement released on Tuesday from the Irish FA read: "Republic of Ireland striker Evan Ferguson has been ruled out of the two UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against France and the Netherlands.

"The Brighton and Hove Albion forward sustained a knee injury in the 3-1 win over Newcastle United on Saturday. Ferguson reported for international duty on Sunday, but after assessment from the Ireland medical team, Ferguson has been ruled out of both fixtures.

"The rest of the squad will travel to Paris later today ahead of the match against France on Thursday, September 7."

It remains to be seen whether Ferguson will be fit to return for Brighton ahead of their next Premier League fixture against Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 16.

Ferguson has enjoyed a rapid rise for club and country over the last 12 months, with impressive performances under Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton being rewarded with international call-ups by Stephen Kenny.

The teenager has scored 14 goals in 33 senior appearances for Brighton since his professional debut in August 2021, while he has also chipped in with two goals in six international games for Ireland, including a strike in a 3-0 win over Gibraltar in Euro 2024 qualifying in June.

In the absence of Ferguson, Kenny has attacking quartet Adam Idah, Chiedozie Ogbene, Will Keane and Aaron Connolly to call upon, the latter of whom has returned to the senior setup for the first time since October 2021.

However, Ireland will be without Seamus Coleman and Michael Obafemi due to respective knee and hamstring injuries, while Matt Doherty will miss the France game due to suspension.

Kenny's side currently sit third in Group B of Euro 2024 qualifying, three points behind Greece in second and nine points adrift of leaders France, who have played a game more and boast a 100% record after four matches.