Morrison makes plea to Irish fans over Brighton striker Ferguson

Former Republic of Ireland striker Clinton Morrison says Brighton whizkid Evan Ferguson needs to be given room to develop.

Morrison is worried about Ferguson being compared with Robbie Keane.

He told the Daily Express: "Keane was one of the best players I ever played with but Ferguson has got great qualities too and I just want him to be his own personality.

"We've always looked at the Republic of Ireland and said 'who's going to fill Robbie Keane's boots?'

"I don't want to compare the two because Keane's record is better than some of the all-time greats at international level.

"While Ferguson undoubtedly has the class to deliver, we must also manage expectations as he's still only 18 which is a ridiculous age, really."