Former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant believes Evan Ferguson should not alter his national allegiance.
The 18-year-old has four goals in four appearances for Brighton so far this season, and grabbed 10 in 25 last year.
He also has two goals from six caps with the Republic of Ireland national team, but has been linked with a switch to England, as he qualifies through his mother.
However, current rules would prevent him from making a switch after playing competitively for Ireland, and regardless, Pennant does not see an easy way to get regular minutes for England given the presence of Ivan Toney - when back from his ban - Callum Wilson and Harry Kane.
Speaking to OLBG, he said: “Evan Ferguson would still have strikers ahead of him if he switched to England
“Harry Kane and Evan Ferguson are similar players - they both like to drop deep and link the play.
“However, England already have a wealth of strikers. Callum Wilson and Ivan Toney have much better numbers than Ferguson, so he wouldn't be a guaranteed striker.
“It's a bit early to compare Ferguson to Kane - he needs a good couple of seasons. If he can match Harry's numbers, then we'll see.”