Possible Ferguson turning point, but Gasperini still needs Roma transfers

Evan Ferguson’s brace against Celtic might be a turning point for the Republic of Ireland international, but Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini will still need reinforcements in January.

Ferguson finally unlocked himself in the Europa League, scoring a fine brace away at Celtic and showing the movements of a true centre-forward.

Gasperini had motivated and pushed him on the eve of the match, and he was repaid in the best possible way. Ferguson is a young player; he’s coming back from an injury and has undeniable quality. Gasperini demands consistency and intensity from him.

Under Gasp, static centre-forwards will never be quite successful, and Thursday’s performance in Glasgow might be a turning point.

Let’s not forget, however, that the coach will need support from the transfer market activity in January. He has already asked for a couple of additions. He has approved the purchase of Joshua Zirkzee, and now it largely depends on Manchester United and the club’s ownership.

Gasperini could agree to part ways with one of his centre-forwards to sign another one, provided that he gets a plug-in player and not another gamble like the one proposed to him at the end of August.

After the 3-0 win over Celtic, Gasperini didn’t want to go deeper into transfer market matters; as it’s an issue that has bothered him since last summer.