Hammers boss David Moyes has been hit with a significant blow this morning with the news that No 2 Alan Irvine will be quitting his job at the London Stadium.
It is understood that he has stepped down for personal reasons but are related to the job being located in the capital
His family are located in the north but according to the Mail on line he will continue in a consultancy role next season.
Irvine has been with Moyesie virtually throughout his career and it’s good news that he will continue in that role although his day to day presence is going to be missed.
It seem likely that the boss will turn to another trusted coach in Billy McKinlay who served under him during his first spell at the club,
Irvine is one of the most respected coaches in British football and his departure leaves a significant hole in Moyes’ staff.
McKinlay, who has held coaching roles at Fulham, Watford, Real Sociedad and Sunderland, is available after leaving his position as Michael O’Neill’s assistant at Stoke in April.
It seems likely that the opportunity of again working with the 58 year old Scot was on the cards when he made that decision and he certainly looks the most likely candidate.
Irvine was brilliant during the period when our manager was self isolating earlier in the season winning all of his games whilst in the dug out and will be missed by the squad after his fine spell at the club.
Loosing Andy Irvine will be a big loss. But I don’t think we should just let a top footballing guy just walk away. What about Andy becoming one of our top scouts? Especially in the North and Scotland.
Also what happened about the ex Director’s of Football at Eintracht Frankfurt and Leicester which we were reportedly interested in?
Thanks for everything Alan. Your contribution has been much appreciated. Big boots to fill now but Wee Davey will know what he wants as a new wingman.
COYI