Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler is committed to finding the "right solution" for Evan Ferguson amid chatter that the forward could be heading out on loan during the January transfer window. Republic of Ireland international Ferguson, who's had limited Premier League action with just two starts and one goal from a dozen appearances, sat out Brighton's recent 0-0 draw with Brentford due to an ankle problem.

Despite being "really happy" with Ferguson at the Amex Stadium, Hurzeler hinted there are ongoing talks concerning the striker's future. "At first, I think he needs to get back on the pitch," said Hurzeler in reference to Ferguson ahead of the team’s match at Aston Villa.

"The rumours, I won’t discuss them in public."

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The head coach emphasised clear communication, adding, "I think it’s very important the player knows our idea, that we know the idea from the player and then it’s most important to be honest with each other, to find the right solution for the club and in the end also for the player."

Hurzeler expressed his pleasure at having the Irishman in the squad and shared his eagerness for Ferguson’s swift return to action. Meanwhile, Brighton's struggle for wins continues, their winless streak extending to six league games without victory following a draw against Brentford, causing them to fall from a high-flying second place to a more modest mid-table position.

Brighton's head coach Hurzeler has expressed his mixed feelings about the team's performance after half a season in English football, stating: "When we look at the games we had, for sure we should be disappointed because we have other ambitions," adding, "We want to finish the games with different results."

Despite this, he remains aware of the challenges, noting, "But in the end we know that it will be a process, we had a lot of changes in the summer. We have a really, really young squad and therefore we have to give them time."

He further commented on the nature of progression within the club, "We know that a process is not always linear. You will do a process in waves and then you have to work hard for it and that’s why there are pros and cons where you can say there was a good half-season or a bad half-season."

Focusing on future prospects he said, "We just try to focus on the process, try to improve, try to be more consistent in the way we get results and then I’m quite positive we will play a good second half of the season."

Talking about Aston Villa under Unai Emery, who are just two points ahead of Brighton, Hurzeler pointed out that they are shaping up well: "They had also a tough period, now they are getting more and more back to shape," praising their Champions League performances and noting Emery's influence: "They have a clear style of play."

"Emery has a big impact on Aston Villa’s philosophy, they have great individual players."

Looking forward to an upcoming challenge he concluded, "I heard a lot about the atmosphere there so it will be a great opportunity for us to improve and to show our identity."