Roma hit by Ferguson controversy as injured striker called up by Ireland | OneFootball

Roma have been left frustrated after striker Evan Ferguson was named in Ireland’s latest international squad despite still recovering from injury.

The 21-year-old suffered a sprained right ankle with ligament involvement just two minutes into Roma’s clash with Parma on October 29, an injury that has kept him sidelined ever since.

Gian Piero Gasperini left him out of the squad for the Europa League match against Rangers, along with Paulo Dybala and Leon Bailey, with the intention of reassessing him only after the international break.

ROME, ITALY – AUGUST 23: Evan Ferguson runs with the ball under pressure from Lorenzo De Silvestri of Bologna during the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on August 23, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

However, Ireland coach Heimir Hallgrímsson has included Ferguson in his squad for two decisive World Cup qualifying fixtures against Portugal and Hungary.

The Giallorossi do not believe he is ready to play, but the Irish staff reportedly want to assess him in person to determine whether he could feature in the second game, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Controversy as injured Roma man Ferguson called up to Ireland

Ferguson’s call-up comes at a difficult moment in his career. Since joining on loan from Brighton in the summer, he has failed to register a single goal or assist, raising concerns over his physical and mental recovery following last year’s cruciate ligament injury.

Gasperini admitted recently that “for the first time, I’ve seen him train well,” suggesting the striker’s fitness has been a long-term issue.

ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Evan Ferguson is challenged by Mario Gila of Lazio during the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

While Ferguson continues to struggle at club level, his record for Ireland remains strong, scoring three goals in four appearances: a key factor behind his surprise inclusion.

Roma, though, are unlikely to be pleased. If the forward’s form does not improve, the club could ask Brighton to revisit the terms of his loan deal in January.