Injured Ferguson Called Up for Ireland Qualifiers

Evan Ferguson, the 21-year-old striker on loan at AS Roma from Brighton and Hove Albion, has been named to the Republic of Ireland's squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers despite sustaining an ankle injury that will sideline him for club matches. The injury occurred just two minutes into Roma's 2-1 Serie A victory over Parma on October 29, forcing Ferguson to leave the pitch early.

Roma confirmed Ferguson will miss their next fixture against Udinese at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday, as well as the Europa League matchup against Rangers earlier this week. Medical assessments revealed ligament damage in his right ankle, with an expected recovery period of two to three weeks. The club anticipates his return for the Serie A game against Cremonese on November 23, after the international break. Roma sit one point behind joint leaders AC Milan and Napoli in the league table and hold a game in hand over Milan, presenting an opportunity to claim the top spot, though the absence adds to an ongoing injury crisis that also includes Paulo Dybala, Leon Bailey, and Angelino.

Despite Roma's concerns over his readiness, Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson included Ferguson in the 25-man squad...