Football | Ferguson joins Roma on loan

Roma have signed Evan Ferguson on loan from Brighton with an option to buy the Republic of Ireland striker.

Ferguson, 20, has fallen out of favour at Brighton under Fabian Hürzeler, and spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham. The Meathman has scored four goals in 18 appearances for the Boys in Green.

"Evan had a challenging period across the past season and a half, and it has been one disrupted by niggling injury issues," Hurzeler said.

"He really wants to play regularly and this is an exciting opportunity in a strong league and with the prospect of European football."

Roma, who finished fifth last season in Serie A, have appointed Gian Piero Gasperini as their new manager.

Ferguson will wear the number 11 shirt at the Italian club.