Evan Ferguson has been hailed as the “future” of Irish football – and told he will return to form some time this season.

The Republic of Ireland striker is back with his Albion colleagues as they prepare to travel to Newcastle United.

Ferguson’s hat-trick against Toon little more than a year ago catapulted him into the national spotlight – with glowing praise from Tyneside legend Alan Shearer.

(Image: Richard Parkes)

But he has suffered injury problems and a long goalless run since last November and drew a blank with the Irish in the latest international window.

Former Albion and Republic star Mark Lawrenson is convinced that is just a blip for Ferguson – but says “brilliant” Danny Welbeck will take some shifting from the line-up.

Lawrenson told Sports Casting: “I think Evan Ferguson will get back into the Brighton starting XI eventually.

“I don’t know what tablets Danny Welbeck has been on, but he’s been brilliant in Ferguson’s absence!

“I have no doubts he will rediscover his scoring touch again.

He has endured a season with a lot of injuries and has looked a little bit sluggish, but that’s all part of the learning process as a young player.

“I think Ferguson is the future of the Ireland team. To be honest, they don’t have that many other outstanding players.

“I’d like to see the side qualify for another major tournament soon – that would be a good accomplishment with the players they have.”

Lawrenson also cited Joao Pedro as an attacking option when fit, although he will again be missing for the Tyneside trip and beyond.

There is no indication of when the Brazil forward will return from an ankle injury although it is not expected to be soon.

Georginio Rutter, Simon Adingra and Jan Paul van Hecke have all trained with the Albion group this week after missing international action.