You don't have to be a goalscoring legend to appreciate Ferguson - but it helps

Arsenal legend Ian Wright is in awe of Brighton forward Evan Ferguson. The legendary English striker knows everything about scoring goals and what it takes to make it at the highest level - and he believes the young Republic of Ireland international is the real deal.

The next hundred-million Brighton export?! Ferguson thrashes the Magpies

Ferguson has emerged as a breakout talent in the Premier League over the past year and a half, impressively scoring ten goals in his first 24 appearances at the top-flight level for the Seagulls. The strong teenager showcased his abilities with a remarkable performance last weekend, securing a hat-trick in his team's 3-1 victory over Newcastle United.

Given that Ferguson is under contract until 2028, Brighton have the leverage to command a huge transfer fee for their highly prized asset when the day comes for him to leave the South Coast club. And according to Wrighty, that day is coming.

"When you look at him, the way he plays, his appreciation for the game, his movement and finishing with both feet, good in the air and good pace. He has all the attributes at 18 and is very mature in how he plays. All he has to do is keep doing what he is doing."

Besides the technical ability, Wright is impressed with Ferguson's mental stability and the apparent tolerance to the immense pressure young footballers face when they step onto the big stage that is the Premier League.

"You can't find that guy to come around, who is 18, in the Premier League and at the perfect club to continue to grow. They aren't going to be able to hold onto that guy if he carries on doing what he is doing. He is too good. So intelligent – for 18, it's really, really composed finishing. He is fearless at 18. Can you imagine being in the Premier League at 18? You're not under the pressure you would be under like Garnacho would be under at Manchester United – you watch the way he plays, all the top teams, the top six teams. He can play in any of those teams. We know Brighton, at some stage, they will sell him."