Imagine a young boy named Evan Ferguson, who at just 14 years old, was thrust into the spotlight to play senior football against tough opponents. This formidable opponent was Frank Lampard’s Chelsea team, and that day, Evan made a name for himself by astonishing everyone. Chelsea didn’t win the match, and suddenly, all eyes were on the new kid, Evan.
This article tells the full story of an Irish striker who is younger than Facebook. He wasn’t even born when Greece’s national football team won Euro 2004, when Arsenal’s Invincibles won the Premier League, or when Jose Mourinho led FC Porto to a Champions League victory.
This article also tells the story of an Irish footballer who shares the same surname as the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. When young Ferguson scored a late goal in a match, a journalist asked if he was familiar with the term “Fergie Time,” a phrase famously associated with his namesake during Sir Alex Ferguson’s managerial days at Manchester United.
Beyond his career highlights, this article on Evan Ferguson’s biography delves into his childhood story and early football journey. It explores the support he received from his parents, Barry and Sarah Ferguson, his rich sporting family background, and the bond he shares with his sister Ellie and his grandparents.
Younger Than Facebook, Turned Pro at 14: This is Evan Ferguson’s Story
Preamble:
Let’s dive into Evan Ferguson’s biography, starting with the significant events of his childhood and early life. We’ll then trace his career path from his early days in football. Finally, we’ll reveal how the Irish talent from Bettystown ascended to prominence in the world of football.
We aim to captivate your interest in Evan Ferguson’s life story through this biography. To kick things off, we’ve put together a gallery that chronicles the football journey of this Bettystown native. Evan Ferguson has undoubtedly come a long way on his remarkable journey through life.
The Biography of Evan Ferguson – from his boyhood years to the moment he achieved national stardom.
For a long time, Irish football fans have yearned for new hope, hoping for a young prospect to fill the shoes left vacant by Robbie Keane. Many see Evan Ferguson as the chosen one who can bring back joy to Irish football. The Republic of Ireland prospect embodies the qualities of a classic number 9, blending speed, strength, and power.
While chronicling the tales of Irish footballers, we’ve noticed a lack of detailed information about Evan Ferguson’s biography, which is quite captivating. So, without delay, let’s dive in.
Evan Ferguson Childhood Story:
To start his biography, Evan Ferguson is known by the nickname “Fergie” and was born with the full name Evan Joe Ferguson.
Born on October 19th, year 2004, in Bettystown, Ireland, Evan is the youngest child of Sarah and Barry Ferguson. He is one of two children born to their happy marriage.
Let’s now introduce you to Evan Ferguson’s parents. Alongside his older sister, Ellie Ferguson, Sarah and Barry are exemplars of simplicity, dedicating their time and resources to support their children through their career journeys.
Evan Ferguson’s Parents are pictured together with his older sister, Ellie.
Growing-Up Years:
During his childhood years, Evan Ferguson grew up in the Irish village of Bettystown alongside his older sister, Ellie. Both siblings were born to Barry and Sarah Ferguson, enjoying their formative years in this picturesque Irish community.
Over the years (from childhood to the present day), Evana and Ellie have built a strong bond and a sense of closeness with each other. They have both supported each other through ups and downs, including at the professional level.
Evan Ferguson’s Sister, Ellie, has feelings of love, fondness, and protectiveness for him.
While discussing the relationship the Irish Athlete shares with his sister, we used the term ‘support from a professional level.
It would interest you to know that Ellie Ferguson (Evan’s sister) is also a professional footballer. We’ll explain the details of her career as we progress with the Bettystown native’s Biography.
Early Years in Football:
Since the age of four, Evan Ferguson displayed promising talent in football, prompting his parents, Sarah and Barry Ferguson, to seek out a suitable academy for him.
After careful consideration and consultations, they decided to enrol Evan at the renowned St. Kevin’s Boys Club in Dublin, a prestigious soccer academy.
It’s worth noting that St. Kevin’s Boys Club has a storied history of nurturing some of Ireland’s finest football talents. Among its notable alumni is Damien Duff, the Chelsea FC legend who excelled under Jose Mourinho during his first stint with the club.
Despite the logistical challenge of distance, Sarah and Barry were steadfast in their decision to launch their son’s career at St. Kevin’s Boys. They committed to a 60-mile round trip, taking turns to transport Evan to training and match days.
The dedication and sacrifices, including the cost of petrol, paid off handsomely for the proud parents. Evan, hailing from Bettystown, emerged as a dedicated and skilled footballer who consistently brought pride to his family, achieving notable success during his childhood.
Hard work and determination began playing off quite early for the son of Barry and Sarah.
Evan Ferguson Family Background:
The first thing to know about Evan Ferguson is that football runs deep in his family’s heritage and tradition. His father, Barry, is a retired footballer who was part of the Coventry City English Premier League squad in the early 2000s—a fact not widely known among soccer fans.
A rare photo of Evan Ferguson’s Dad (Barry) during his Shamrock Rovers days in 2008.
Barry Ferguson, a 6 ft 3 defender, also played for several other Irish and English clubs including Longford Town, Bohemians, and Shamrock Rovers. Forced to retire in February 2009 due to a serious hip injury, Barry was determined to keep the family’s football dream alive through his children.
After getting released by Coventry, Barry decided to stay close and look after his son’s young career. More interestingly, Evan Ferguson’s Dad met his Mum, Sarah, while playing football playing in Coventry city. One thing led to another, and there came a footballer.
In 2002, The same Coventry City football club knew when Barry Ferguson’s Premier League career ended emotionally.
And Barry, who was only 22, knew he had to move on to have a better future elsewhere. Little did he know that injury would force him to retire at 30.
Together with his wife, Sarah, both parents had a good sporting influence on their children while they were growing up.
After his forceful retirement, Barry became a development officer with his country’s football body (the Football Association of Ireland).
Evan Ferguson Family Origin:
The Centre-Forward calls Bettystown in Co Meath his Irish home. Looking further into Evan Ferguson’s origin, our findings reveal both his Dad and Mum have Irish nationality.
And the native of Bettystown has English descent through Sarah, his mother.
Bettystown, where Evan Ferguson Family’s family comes from, is previously known as Betaghstown.
This is a small Irish village (with a population of 10,889 – 2011 Census) situated in County Meath, just north of Dublin, Ireland.
A map gallery that helps you understand where Evan Ferguson’s Family comes from.
The Irish Centre-Forward from Bettystown in Co Meath has something in common with Jonjo Shelvey, Jack Grealish (Left Winger), Harry Kane (Forward), and Declan Rice (Defensive Midfielder).
These footballers, who have all played for the England national team, have family traces that point to Ireland.
Ethnicity:
Similar to Johnny Evans, the Athlete is a full-blown Irish. Evan Ferguson identifies with the dominant ethnic group in Ireland. This ethnic group consists of roughly 85% of Irish people. Going deep into Evan Ferguson’s ancestry, there is a possibility that his family has a trace to the Gaelic people of Ireland.
According to the study’s website, Gaelic people are the first settlers of Ireland. A wider ethnolinguistic group who have lived in Ireland for around 9000 years.
Education:
While the exact school Evan Ferguson attended is unknown, we sure know that Ellie, his sister is a product of Colaiste na nlnse school.
As reported by Ohiobobcats, Ellie Ferguson was Class President for three years. Evan Ferguson’s sister was also a student council member for one year.
As a Catholic, there is a high possibility that the Forward must have begun with any of these two primary schools in Bettystown village.
Scoil Spioraid Naoimh School and Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa are the only two Catholic schools in the village where Evan Ferguson grew up.
Career Buildup:
Since his early childhood years in Bettystown, County Meath, football was ingrained in Ferguson’s upbringing.
With Barry Ferguson being a professional footballer, both Evan and his sister Ellie enjoyed a nurturing environment for their football development from a young age.
Even unknowingly, they received subtle coaching from their father right from the beginning. Unlike a strict or demanding father figure like Richard Williams, Barry wasn’t the type to push his children aggressively. Instead, he gently guided them.
Barry would say to his son during those early days,
“Okay Evan, use your right foot first, then the left foot, and finally, the header.”
Barry Ferguson was the kind of Dad who let Evan be the kid he was and then allowed him to grow up normally with his peers. While he made great inputs to lay a solid foundation, he trusted his son’s coaches to guide him into becoming a better professional.
Evan Ferguson Biography – Football Story:
From the beginning, growing up in County Meath, Evan Ferguson was determined to fulfill his father’s football aspirations. He had the attitude and conviction that a successful football career was within reach.
Evan believed he could achieve a career even greater than his father’s.
In terms of football development, Evan spent his formative years at St Kevin’s Boys, a prestigious schoolboy club in Dublin.
Being familiar with the football world, Barry Ferguson understood that St Kevin’s provided the ideal environment for his son to receive top-notch football training.
In the famed schoolboy nursery on Dublin’s northside, young Evans achieved lots of success.
For Barry and Sarah, driving a 60-mile round trip was worthwhile, especially when it brought this kind of success for their beloved son. It was truly worth every mile!
Young Ferguson and his teammates were pictured celebrating the SFAI juniors trophy.
One of Evan’s big games of his young life was the cup final between St Joseph’s and his team, St Kevin’s.
Ferguson scored twice in that match, and the goals helped his team seal the victory. At a very young age, his talent, and most especially his height, was obvious.
The boy (Evan) had everything as a young teenager, including height.
Many who knew him back in the day described him as skilled, fast, big, and two-footed. Evan’s range of passing, as a kid, was incredible.
As a kid, Evans was not just a goal scorer but someone who was tactically mature, even in the midfield. He reminded football fans of the Legendary Marco Van Basten in terms of his playing style.
Fergie, one of the tallest, present their trophies and medals in front of an audience.
Early football traits:
The youngster had everything he needed, especially the unwavering support of his parents, Barry and Sarah. Together with his coach, they provided him with a solid foundation. Karl Lambe, Evan’s coach at St Kevin’s, once remarked:
Once a time, we played Man United at Carrington; we played Man City at their academy. And in a year, we played against Barcelona three times.
He was getting attention then, at that age. He has always relied on his outstanding footballing ability.
Quite often, you’ll put the big lad in the middle of the pitch, and he’ll score all the goals.
Ferguson transitioned from playing multiple positions during his time in the under-12s.
Prior to this, he was versatile, occupying roles in midfield, right-wing, centre-half, centre midfield, and upfront. However, during his under-12 season, he found his niche and settled as a striker.
In his early career with St Kevin’s Boys, Evan Ferguson enjoyed success with the following names; Somtochi Agbaje, Fiachra Pagel, David Okagbue, Sean Grehan, Jamie Mullins, Callum Warren, Ben Curtis, etc.
The list goes on… Chris Moore, Jamie Murphy, Cian Kelly, Derin Adawale, Sam Curtis, James McManus, Kevin Zeffi Nelson Ero, and David Leonard.
Among those circled is Jamie Mullins (pictured left). Our very own Evan is circled, holding the trophy.
Among the above names, only one footballer followed Evan to Brighton & Hove Albion. He is Jamie Mullins; the boy circled on the left. Jamie Mullins, as of 2023, plays for Brighton’s U21 as an attacking midfielder.
Road to Fame:
Reaching the top level during his early teenage years marked a significant turning point in Evan Ferguson’s career. As the seasons advanced, Ferguson’s name became widely recognized throughout Ireland.
So, it wasn’t surprising to football fans to see the Athlete gain admission into one of Ireland’s top academies – the Bohemians.
Bohemians are a bigger club which has strong ties with St Kevin’s. At the time Ferguson joined them (at age 14), he was almost ready to play senior team football.
As a big, strong boy who can attack everything, Evan (at age 14) was elevated to sign his first professional contract.
A Rare Debut:
At the age of 14, the future Brighton star realized he was on the verge of achieving his dream of making his professional debut.
To his surprise, this debut came against Chelsea FC, one of the world’s top teams. It was during one of Chelsea’s preseason matches against Evan Ferguson’s team, Bohemian FC.
Facing off against experienced defenders like Kurt Zouma, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marc Guehi, Atalanta’s Europa League winner Davide Zappacosta, and Trevoh Chalobah, 14-year-old Evan knew he was about to test his skills against some of the best in the business.
Meet Frank Lampard is pictured here at Dalymount Park. The Chelsea former coach was about to have his first game in charge (against Bohemians) as a Blues Head Coach.
Looking back at that match, Evan did unbelievably well. Do you know?… Ferguson held Kurt Zouma off his way by doing a body feint.
The youngster was involved in Eric Molloy’s 89th-minute equaliser goal for Bohemians, which made the match end in a 1-1 draw.
Upon his debut, Evan Ferguson (who was only 14) became his club’s youngest-ever senior player. That match which was played at Dalymount Park (in July 2019), exposed Evan to the watchful eyes of football scouts.
And there was also some criticism for the Irish club (Bohemians) who allowed a 14-year-old boy to play against adults.
The 14-year-old Ferguson pictured making his debut against Frank Lampard’s Chelsea team.
Overcoming Post-Debut Criticism:
The bulk of this criticism levelled on Bohemians’ manager Keith Long, in his decision to give a 14-year-old an early debut came via social media.
Many noisy social media observers said that a kid like Evan Ferguson shouldn’t have been allowed in the adult dressing room, let alone facing a big club like Chelsea.
Evan was never moved by those who chose to criticise rather than congratulate him. He relied on his huge support network of persons who wanted his process.
Chiefly among them (his biggest motivators) are Evan Ferguson’s Parents, alongside his big sister.
Seeing their breadwinner making his debut as a 14-year-old made Sarah, Barry and Ellie very proud.
Evan Ferguson Biography – Rise to Fame Story:
Bohs’ 14-year-old, after his impressive Chelsea cameo, became one of the hottest young transfer prospects.
Liverpool was said to be the first club to have scouted Evan Ferguson. Immediately after Jurgen Klopp’s read made an interest in signing the youngster, other top clubs followed.
Evan Ferguson never dropped the ball amid the huge transfer battle surrounding him.
In December 2020, the Irish boy wonder scored and helped his club (Bohemians) win the League of Ireland U17 Division. Behold the 6’2” (188cm) Striker celebrating his first-ever senior trophy.
Young Evan was pictured celebrating the League of Ireland trophy after helping his club to beat Shamrock Rovers (2–0) in the final.
Although Liverpool were the frontrunners to get his signature, it was Brighton who finally won the race to sign Ferguson.
Because of a FIFA transfer rule, the Bettystown native was allowed to move to his new club once he turned 16. By law, Irish players aren’t allowed to do that. But with Ferguson, there came an exception.
In the wake of Brexit, there was a new rule that young Irish footballers can only move to the UK only when they turn 18.
One of Evan Ferguson’s Parents (his Mum) became the reason why he joined Brighton when he was 16 and not 18. As earlier recalled in our memoir, the Athlete’s Mum, Sarah, is British.
The next Levels:
All the big six clubs in the Premier League made an attempt to sign the Bohemians whizkid.
But Brighton, a club known to be the perfect environment for young football talents, had an edge. Ferguson joined Brighton when his success rapidly grew with the Republic of Ireland U21 team.
With Potter’s Brighton, there was a favourable environment, including an opportunity to play first-team football.
A few months after he joined the club, Ferguson made his first team debut, a match against Cardiff City, where he got an assist.
Interestingly, Evan got his first Premier League goal against Arsenal. Achieving this feat made him the second youngest Irishman to score a goal in a Premier League match.
Here is Ferguson’s first premier league goal that brought so much excitement at the Amex Stadium.
Observing this amazing achievement, Brighton gave the youngster (on his 18th birthday) his first long-term professional contract (until 2026).
And to the joy of Evan Ferguson’s Family, their very own was called up to make his international debut for his country; the Republic of Ireland senior national team. He now plays in the Irish national team alongside notable names like Chiedozie Ogbene and Michael Obafemi.
The Post-Potter Rise:
With Neal Maupay leaving for Everton and Danny Welbeck suffering from injury, Evan knew his opportunity had come. Coach Roberto De Zerbi initially used Leandro Trossard (LW), Solly March and Julio Enciso in the false nine positions.
The ex-Shakhtar coach, who wasn’t blessed with experienced forwards, decided to give Ferguson a starting eleven chance. As expected, the Rising Irish Striker didn’t disappoint.
So, De Zerbi has placed his attacking hopes on a young Ferguson, who continued to have an immediate impact on the game. Evan looked quality in his first 4 EPL games.
The thing that excites fans most about him is that he (like Levi Colwill) is at a club that will be perfect for allowing his career development.
Where would the future lead him?
Although Evan, as an 18-year-old, exploded into the Premier League scene. But lots of fans have begun to ask if the Irish Wonder has what it takes to become an elite Forward.
As of 2023, there are two types of Premier League strikers that Evan Ferguson appears to resemble. The first is Michael Owen, a Legendary Striker who busted into the scene as a teenager. He is a Liverpool Legend who lived up to the hype surrounding his name.
And the second example of a Premier League wonderkid striker is Federico Macheda. A Man United Baller who came from almost nowhere to begin scoring goals.
Then suddenly, he disappeared from the consciousness of football fans’ just as quickly as he arrived.
We hope Evan Ferguson will have the same fate as Michael Owen. And more importantly, we hope he lives up to the expectation of becoming the next Robbie Keane of Irish football. The rest, as we say in Evan Ferguson’s Biography, Brighton’s Teenage Superstar, is now history.
Who is the Irish Striker dating?
Making his debut at the tender age of 14 already proves that Ferguson is destined for the top. Now, there is a saying that behind every successful Irish footballer comes a glamorous girlfriend. To this end, We asks the ultimate question…
Who is Evan Ferguson’s Girlfriend?
An enquiry into the Love Life of the Irish Forward.
As of writing Evan Ferguson’s biography, there are no publicly known details about his relationship status. A review of his social media profiles—Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.—reveals no mentions of a girlfriend or wife.
Given Evan’s focus on his career at this critical stage, it’s plausible that his parents have advised him to keep his personal life private, at least until he feels settled.
Personal Life:
Ferguson is a humble footballer who never forgets his roots, no matter how busy he gets. During his breaks, he always visits Bohemians, his old club. Evan, who is so down to earth, would sit on their bench and watch their games.
In fact, nothing has changed with him despite the success he has achieved as a premier league footballer. The Irish Athlete is a great ambassador for the sport and an inspiration to both his fans and aspiring footballers alike.
Ferguson believes that success on the field can be combined with humility, especially for the persons and places that helped shape his early career. Whether it’s bonding with younger players or catching up with old friends, Bohemians will always have a place in his heart.
Lifestyle:
Knowing how the Irish Baller lives outside the pitch will help you get a complete picture of his person.
To start with, Evan Ferguson is someone who commands a simple lifestyle. Not one that is filled with luxuries – exotic cars, big houses, expensive wristwatches and other things that command opulent comfort.
The Bettystown native lives a low-key lifestyle, despite his financial success and fame.
Evan Ferguson Family Life:
Being criticized by some social media football fans simply because he made his debut at 14 wasn’t what he expected. Evan Ferguson’s Parents and sister offer him a shoulder to lean on and the strength to overcome that criticism. Now, let’s tell you about them, including his grandparents.
Evan Ferguson’s Mother:
Sarah was born on the 6th day of January 1979 in West Midlands, England. At the time of writing Evan Ferguson’s Bio, his Mum has just celebrated her 44th birthday.
Celebrating Sarah’s 40th birthday was a special milestone, one which marked her amazing journey through life. Behold the heartwarming and special occasion where Evan and Ellie celebrated their mother.
Sarah Ferguson took this photo with her kids on the occasion of her 40th birthday.
Ellie Ferguson:
Evan’s sister was born on the 21st day of April 21 2002, in County Meath, Ireland. Ellie Ferguson attended Colaiste na nlnse school. She was Class President there for three years, including a student council member – for a year.
Like her younger brother, Evan, Ellie Ferguson is also a professional footballer. As of 2023, Ellie Ferguson plays for the women’s soccer team at Ohio University.
Meet Evan Ferguson’s sister, Ellie, who is a trophy-winning professional footballer.
Before joining Ohio, Ellie Ferguson played for the women’s wing of East Meath United from 2008 to 2014. By 2014, Evan’s sister transferred to Shellbourne FC from where she played until 2019.
In addition, Ellie Ferguson captained the youth side of Ireland’s u15, u16 and u17. Evan’s sister is the proud winner of the All-Ireland trophy (three times) as well as the Women’s National League (once).
When Ellie Ferguson isn’t playing football, she finds herself coaching young girls in the game. She loves watching the Premier League, and her favourite club isn’t Brighton, but Man United. Ellie is also a boxing fan, and the Irish Boxer, Katie Taylor, is her favourite.
About Evan Ferguson’s Father:
Barry, born on September 7, 1979, is seven months younger than his wife, Sarah. As of 2023, Evan Ferguson’s father, Barry, works as a development officer for Ireland’s Football Association. He was forced to retire in February 2009 due to a severe hip injury.
Barry has always had a great influence on Evan and Ellie’s football careers.
Evan inherited his 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) height from his Father. Before hanging up his boots, the former Irish Defender made 200 career appearances and scored 13 goals.
Ten of Barry Ferguson’s goals came with Longford Town, where he made 103 appearances.
Evan Ferguson’s Grandparents:
Results from our research show that the Irish Athlete’s grandad played football at a good level. Judging by that, it is clear that Evan Ferguson’s family has a tradition of playing football throughout the generations.
Untold Facts:
In the final phase of Evan Ferguson’s Biography, we’ll unveil more truths you might not know about him. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Evan Ferguson’s Profile:
At 16, the Emerging talent could boast of having a 77 FIFA potential. These FIFA stats are quite underrated for his status, considering his quick rise to senior football at the tender age of 14. Similar to Jhon Duran, movement and power are Evan’s most valuable assets.
His greatest football assets are Sprint Speed, Balance, Acceleration, Agility, Jumping and Strength.
Evan Ferguson Salary:
At the time he joined Brighton (January 2021), the County Meath Striker earned £3,000 (Capology report). Following a long-term professional contract on the 19th of October 2022, Evan Ferguson’s earnings increased. Our odds are in favour of his wages being on par with Billy Gilmore and Tariq Lamptey.
How rich is the Irish Forward?
Where Evan Ferguson’s Parents had him, the average salary is €36,430 per year. So, the average worker would have to work for 56 years to earn Evan Ferguson’s annual wage with Brighton. Wow!
Evan Ferguson’s Religion:
From our findings, the County Meath Athlete identifies with Christianity. Evan Ferguson’s Parents raised him and his Ellie as devoted Catholics.
Studies show that most Irish people (78% of her population) identify with the Catholic faith.
Endnote:
Evan Ferguson’s Parents are Barry and Sarah. His Dad is an Irish former professional footballer and now a development officer with the Irish football FA.
Evan Ferguson was born into a football family. The Athlete and his only siblings are professional footballers.
Our findings show that his granddad was a former footballer, meaning he is part of his family’s third football generation. About his origins, Evan Ferguson is Irish through his Father, Barry and British through his Mother, Sarah.
The Athlete’s Dad, Barry, met his wife, Sarah, in England while he was playing at Coventry City in the early 2000s.
Ellie Ferguson, their first daughter, was born in County Meath, Ireland, on the 21st of April, 2002. Evan arrived two years later, on the 19th of October 2004.
Ferguson began his career with the well-renowned St Kevin’s Boys, the Dublin schoolboy academy. After making tremendous progress, including winning trophies, he moved on to play with Ireland club Bohemians.
At the tender age of 14, the Irish Athlete was considered ripe enough to make his debut. Interestingly, Evan’s debut came against Frank Lampard’s Chelsea team.
In a memorable match known to be Lampard’s first game as a manager with Chelsea, Ferguson contributed to the goal that held Chelsea to a 1-1 draw.
Following the Bohemians 14-year-old‘s rise, Liverpool, Chelsea and the rest of the big six Premier League clubs made an inquiry about signing him.
Ferguson chose Graham Potter’s Brighton. With the club, he (under the command of Roberto de Zerbi) went on to become the youngest Premier League goalscorer.
Appreciation Note:
Thank you for taking the time to read our version of Evan Ferguson’s Biography. We strive for accuracy and fairness in our quest to deliver you Football Stories of The Boys in Green.
Evan Ferguson’s Bio is part of our wider collection of Centre Forwards’ football Stories. Please reach out to us (via comment) if you spot anything that doesn’t look right in the story about the footballer from County Meath, Ireland.
Also, we’ll like you to tell us what you think about Evan Ferguson’s career, including this story we’ve written about him.
Asides from the article of the Irish Sensation, we’ve got other great Irish soccer stories. The history of Roy Keane and Aaron Conolly will excite you.
