Ferguson happy to be in the company of Son and Haaland

Brighton and Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson was happy to be in good company on the day he scored his first Premier League hat-trick.

The Republic of Ireland striker was the star of the show as Brighton produced a dominant display against Newcastle, running out 3-1 winners.

Ferguson's first senior hat-trick, which was followed by Callum Wilson's consolation, was the third in the Premier League on Saturday after trebles for Manchester City's Erling Haaland and Tottenham forward Son Heung-min.

"It's a good day," Ferguson told Brighton's website. "It's an unbelievable feeling.

"It's not bad company to be in; Haaland's record last season (52 City goals in all competitions) and Son's been doing it for a number of years, so it's good company to be in."

Ahead of kick-off, the Seagulls paraded 20-year Spain forward Ansu Fati following his deadline-day loan switch from Barcelona.

"He's going to be great for the squad, especially as competition," said Ferguson.

"It's tough up that area of the pitch and he's going to be another one chucked in there and I reckon he'll be very good for it."

Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi hailed Ferguson's all around performance and paid tribute to the 18-year-old's ability to find space and adapt to a different formation.

"About Ferguson, I'm really delighted today but not for the goals," the Brighton boss said.

"OK, with his goals we can be happy now because we won the game but I'm really pleased for the performance, especially in the first half.

"He played very well, he found the right position between the lines. Newcastle defended 4-4-1-1 and with 4-4 there is the open space to receive the ball for the striker.

"He understood very well that position."