Fabian Hurzeler has dismissed speculation about Evan Ferguson's departure from Brighton – but said he must “accept his role” in the team.
This was reported on Tuesday are ready to make the striker in the January transfer window.
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has only started one Premier League game this season and could soon get the chance for more playing time elsewhere.
However, a departure appears to have been ruled out by the Brighton boss as he spoke ahead of Friday night's home game against Southampton, live on talkSPORT.
“I don't know where this information came from because I said to Evan that I'm glad he's here on the team,” he said via the metro.
“I'm happy with how he's training, what condition he's in physically and mentally. Of course he is a young player and needs playing time.”
Although Ferguson has only played 258 minutes of football so far this season, Hurzeler insists he must be prepared for any opportunity possible.
“That's the same thing I ask of all players: accept your role and don't complain,” he added.
“You can be disappointed if you don’t play. I was the same as a player, that’s normal and that’s how it should be.”
“But accept your role and make sure you’re ready when you get the opportunity.”
“The best example is Igor [Julio]. Nobody expected Igor to play so many games at this stage, but he always made sure he was ready for games and the opportunity.
“He always trained hard, never complained, accepted his role and then when he got the chance, he was there. This is exactly what I ask of Evan and what I told him.”
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“I never told him anything about a loan or anything like that. We’re glad Evan is here and I’m sure he can help us next week.”
Danny Welbeck, Joao Pedro and Georginio Rutter were all preferred options for Hurzeler's attack.
Ferguson, who has made 74 appearances for Brighton, has only appeared in seven Premier League games this season.
While recovering from an ankle injury, he missed the first three games and has scored just one goal since.
The Irishman hopes to feature for the club in their game against Southampton on the south coast.
Brighton will rise to second place in the Premier League and, with a win, will be just six points behind leaders Liverpool.