Ferguson's 20-second injury compounds early-season struggles in Italy

Evan Ferguson’s stop-start early season in Italy has been hit by injury.

The on-loan Albion striker started Roma’s midweek home game against Parma in Serie A.

But he was injured after seconds and went off after just seven minutes with an ankle injury.

Both Ferguson and fellow striker Artem Dovbyk have struggled to get into their stride this season and had been left out of the XI.

Ferguson got the nod this time but it was Doybyk who took his opportunity with what proved to be the winner in a 2-1 success at the Stadio Olimpico.

The result keeps Roma level on points with leaders Napoli.

Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini said: “Evan had an ankle problem, which has already been painful in recent weeks.

“He suffered probably a sprain, and was no longer able to stay on the pitch .”

Ferguson’s selection appears to have been a surprise and gave him the chance to score his first league goal of the season.

Bit it was not to be. Although his match lasted just seven minutes, it was effectively over after 20 seconds.

That was how long it took him to suffer a knock to his already troublesome ankle in a clash with Argentina defender Lautaro Valenti.

He was unable to continue.

Ferguson’s 20-second injury compounds early-season struggles in Italy