Ireland entering Euro qualifiers with new sense of optimism thanks to certain striker

Another international break is upon us, and the Euro 2024 qualification campaign is about to get underway - bringing a new sense of hope and optimism to the Irish supporters.

One player seems to be the main topic of conversation heading into the highly anticipated France fixture Monday week (March 27). That being Brighton's Evan Ferguson.

The talented 18-year-old striker has been an important asset for Roberto De Zerbi's side so far this season - scoring seven times to date. Ferguson bagged another two goals in the Seagulls' FA Cup quarter-final victory over the weekend, including a touch, turn and finish that Karim Benzema would be proud of. 

That is sublime.

Rising star, @Evan_Ferguson9, showcases his talent once again ⭐️#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/VE7ajpvthA

— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) March 19, 2023

Irish supporters are still searching for the 'next' Robbie Keane after the country's best-ever goalscorer retired in 2018, having scored an impressive 68 goals in 146 international appearances.

But Ferguson doesn't need that pressure. The youngster has all the attributes to be Ireland's go-to man for the future but fans can't forget that he is still only a teenager. The former Bohemians prospect deserves to start against France and so he should. He is Ireland's most in-form attacker at the highest level in Stephen Kenny's squad.

The hype is there for Ferguson, and it is difficult not to get excited when a young Irish forward is scoring and putting in man-of-the-match performances in the English Premier League.

One thing is for sure, the Irish public will be hoping that he can be the 'man' for the Boys in Green in this crucial qualification campaign. It all starts against Les Blues at the Aviva Stadium next week - a squad which compromises of a number of world-class players including PSG marksman Kylian Mbappé.

Before their first competitive outing of 2023, the Boys in Green welcome Latvia to the Aviva Stadium for a friendly encounter this Wednesday (March 22).

SQUAD | Kenny names 26-man squad for Latvia & France

Mikey Johnston receives first call-up whilst @NorwichCityFC duo Andrew Omobamidele & Adam Idah return to the squad for the first time since 2021

Roll on next week

22/03 | | 7.45pm
27/03 | | 7.45pm pic.twitter.com/jenfquoDjG

— Ireland Football ⚽️ (@IrelandFootball) March 16, 2023