Evan Ferguson to miss Republic of Ireland World Cup play-off with injury
Roma striker Evan Ferguson will miss the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup play-off campaign after being ruled out for the remainder of the season with a significant ankle injury.
The 21-year-old’s loan spell in Serie A is set to end prematurely as he returns to parent club Brighton & Hove Albion to undergo surgery.
It serves as a major blow to manager Heimir Hallgrimsson’s plans ahead of the crucial semi-final tie against the Czech Republic next month.
Season cut short by surgery
Ferguson has netted five times in 22 appearances during his time in Italy, though his progress has been disrupted by recurring fitness issues.
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini confirmed the forward would play no further part in the current campaign before Sunday’s fixture against Genoa.
“It is now clear that he will finish the season here and will have surgery on his ankle,” said Gasperini.
“He will no longer have time to recover even in the end of the season.”
Ireland’s route to the World Cup
The Republic of Ireland are scheduled to face the Czech Republic in Prague on 26 March.
Should they navigate that semi-final, they will face either Denmark or North Macedonia for a place at the tournament.
The Brighton loanee was instrumental during the qualifying phase, scoring three goals for his country.
However, fitness struggles forced him to miss notable victories over Portugal and Hungary which secured this play-off opportunity.
If Hallgrimsson’s side qualifies for a first World Cup since 2002, they will join co-hosts Mexico, South Korea, and South Africa in Group A.
