Roma have signalled they plan to keep Evan Ferguson on loan and back his recovery, meaning punters might avoid backing him for anytime goals immediately and instead favour Roma win markets or Donyell Malen to start/score while Ferguson regains fitness; Ferguson’s return could later shorten odds for Roma to score more goals.
Evan Ferguson set to remain at Roma despite injury spell
Roma have given Evan Ferguson another vote of confidence, suggesting the Republic of Ireland striker will stay at the Stadio Olimpico for the remainder of his loan. Ferguson has struggled for goals this season, managing five in 21 appearances, but club officials say they are counting on him to regain form once fit.
Squad context and recent form
Ferguson’s two goals against Celtic came in a 3-0 Europa League win last November during Wilfried Nancy’s brief Celtic stint. He has missed Roma’s last two matches through injury. In his absence, January loan signing Donyell Malen marked his debut by scoring in a 2-0 win over Torino, showing Roma have attacking options while Ferguson recovers.
Club stance — sporting director and manager comments
Roma sporting director Frederic Massara insisted the club expects Ferguson to return and improve his goal tally, describing his recent performances positively despite the current injury setback. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini added that Ferguson has grown since joining and stressed the need for the player to seize Roma as a major opportunity and raise his motivation.
Transfer speculation: Napoli, Celtic and other suitors
Ferguson has been linked with moves beyond Celtic interest, notably Napoli, who are reportedly seeking another striker as Lorenzo Lucca nears a loan to Nottingham Forest. Celtic remain keen on attacking reinforcements with two weeks left in the January window.
Celtic’s pursuit of forwards
Interim Celtic manager Martin O’Neill is seeking additions up front. The club have been linked with Chelsea forward David Datro Fofana, who has been recalled from his loan in Turkey and could be available for a permanent move. English Championship side Derby County have also been reported as interested. Celtic are also said to have made a loan approach for Lorient striker Mohamed Bamba, who is among several players the French side are looking to move before the deadline.
What this means for the market and bettors
Roma’s public commitment to Ferguson reduces the likelihood of an immediate exit this month. Punters should note Ferguson’s current injury and modest scoring record: short-term bets on him to score may carry longer odds, while backing Roma’s starting line-up (including Malen) or Roma match outcomes may offer more predictable value until Ferguson is fully fit.
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Daily Record
