Watch: James Milner hails Evan Ferguson as a 'phenomenal finisher' but with plenty to learn

James Milner is the latest big name footballer to come out and speak highly of Evan Ferguson, describing the 19-year-old striker as a "phenomenal finisher."

The three-time Premier League winner has been clubmates with Ferguson since he swapped Liverpool for Brighton & Hove Albion last summer and has therefore witnessed the ability of the Republic of Ireland international up close on a regular basis.

And while the former Manchester City and Liverpool midfielder spoke glowingly of the Bettystown native's ability on the pitch, he also praised his character off it.

"Great lad first and foremost, wants to learn, wants to get better which is so important," begins Milner, who also insisted that Ferguson is at the right club to continue his development despite constant rumours linking him with a move elsewhere.

"He's at a great place in terms of the club, the manager he's working with, the senior players he's got to work off. You look at someone like Welbs (Danny Welbeck) and how he goes about his business, how he plays," continues the 38-year-old.

"His finishing is phenomenal"

"He's got a lot to learn but he has so much ability already"

Evan Ferguson has already made a great impression on PL veteran James Milner ✅

➡️ Watch in full on YouTube: https://t.co/KFA0EDf10p pic.twitter.com/SZ1wckzt4Y

"But his finishing is phenomenal to be honest like, so good. If a chance is falling you want it to him. 

"He had one - we were joking about it - but at West Ham and he didn't score but it was a chance that he just made it out of nothing. He just knocked it over and left foot hit it instinctively.

"He's got a lot to learn still, there are so many areas he can improve and that's normal for a young guy.

"But his ability already... I've seen