Why Crystal Palace must revive their interest in Nathan Ferguson
According to Football.London, Crystal Palace tried to sign West Bromwich Albion youngster Nathan Ferguson during the closing stages of the January transfer window.
However, the move broke down over a medical issue, putting a halt to the Eagles pursuit of the 19-year-old defender. Meanwhile, Palace boss Roy Hodgson is in the hunt for some new young faces, with the current squad statistically being the oldest in the Premier League.
Despite having an ageing squad at his disposal, Hodgson has helped the Eagles climb to 11th place in the league table and is eyeing a top-10 finish. However, Hodgson’s side needs some young blood to excel in the longer run.
Considering Hodgson’s need to infuse some young talents, and with the summer transfer window around the corner, Eagles must now once again revive their interest in Ferguson.
The teenage defender has had a breakthrough campaign this season, featuring in 21 of West Brom’s 37 league games. Primarily a centre-back, Ferguson’s versatility has seen him play at right-back and left-back this term.
Ferguson, who was handed his Championship debut just this season, has managed to excel despite his young age, featuring in 11 of the Baggies’ 19 league wins.
Ferguson can add some energy to an ageing Palace defence
Hodgson’s Palace have been pretty stable in their defence this season, conceding just 32 goals from 29 league games. However, 6 out of their 8 defenders are already past their thirties, and hence Hodgson needs to add young faces.
Also, Palace lack depth in the full-back areas, with Patrick van Aanholt, Joel Ward and Martin Kelly being the only recognisable faces. Dutchman Van Aanholt is their only left-back while Ward and Kelly have mostly been sharing the right-back duties.
Palace could really do with a versatile defender like Ferguson, who has shown potential at a young age. Moreover, his inclusion will bring some energy into a side mostly filled with old guards. Thus, Palace and Hodgson must once again pursue Ferguson and sign him.
Read more:
- Why Johan Hove to Crystal Palace would boost their midfield options
- Why Reece Oxford will be a good future investment for Crystal Palace
- Crystal Palace interested in 28-year-old Ligue 1 star Bouna Sarr – Is Hodgson doing the right thing here?
Verdict
Considering Palace’s dearth of young defenders, Ferguson’s arrival will only make them stronger in that department. Moreover, his versatility would be quite handy. Also, he is still in his teens and can enhance his game under a senior coach like Hodgson if a move happens.
