Evan Ferguson: I sweated more during my driving test than any Premier League match for Brighton

Evan Ferguson says he got more nervous taking his driving test than he does facing top Premier League defenders.

The 18-year-old has signed a new long-term contract, tying him down to the Amex Stadium until 2029.

Ferguson has been compared to Alan Shearer by the England legend himself, but the Brighton wonderkid admits he finds scoring goals easier than being behind the wheel.

After numerous failed tests, Ferguson has only recently been able to shed his L-Plates after previously relying on lifts to matches from Brighton’s player liaison officer.

The Irish sensation said: “I had to get that one out of the way.

“I haven't sweated as much in a match as I did during that driving test I don't think. Never again!”

Ferguson has been destined for superstardom since making his debut for League of Ireland side Bohemians aged just FOURTEEN in a friendly against Frank Lampard’s Chelsea.

Two years later and after trials at clubs including Liverpool and Manchester United the affable 19-year-old joined Brighton after being recommended to the Seagulls by Ireland legend Liam Brady.

Ferguson, who speaks with the same coolness he displays in the penalty area, explains: “I went to a few different teams.

“But the feeling I got when I came here was just sort of different to those teams. There was a pathway here and a number of other Irish players.

“I think there was a lot that I took into consideration and I had to think about, because it's not like it's a little deal moving away and Brighton ended up being the right move for me.”

Ferguson had not even turned 17 when he made his Brighton bow and is one of only four 18-year-olds to score a Premier League hat-trick.

The Bettystown-born front-man, whose grandad played alongside George Best at Manchester