“Technically Excellent” | Iru-Bru Iniesta Making a Big Splash

West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui recently praised Andy Irving, describing him as “a very good player, technically” and predicting that he will become “a very interesting player” once he adjusts to the Premier League’s demanding physical pace.

If these remarks sound familiar to West Ham supporters, it’s because Lopetegui made nearly identical comments about Jean-Clair Todibo just a month prior. At the time, some—including myself—wondered if the Spanish coach was being overly cautious with Todibo. But Lopetegui’s patient approach proved to be spot on, with Todibo himself acknowledging the wisdom in his gradual introduction to the team.

So when Lopetegui spoke similarly about Irving, especially after his call-up to the Scotland national team, it caught my attention. Normally, I might have brushed off such comments as the usual diplomatic managerial platitudes.

However, Irving’s selection for the full Scotland squad and West Ham’s decision to turn down a loan offer from Celtic during the transfer window suggest that the former Hearts player is on the cusp of making a significant impact at the club.

Irving himself can barely hide his excitement about the chance to represent Scotland at the senior level. “I’m absolutely thrilled to be here and ready to soak in the experience of being part of the national team,” he shared. “It’s been a whirlwind journey, to be honest.

“I’ve had a mix of great and tough experiences, especially during my time in Germany. But on the pitch, I’ve really grown as a player. I’ve added new dimensions to my game, and during my time in Austria, I even played more as an attacking midfielder and a No. 10. That’s a bit of a shift, as I was primarily a defensive midfielder in Scotland.

Irving ready to make a big splash for Scotland

“My time at West Ham so far has been fantastic. I’m loving it, especially these past few weeks as I’ve started getting some game time. The challenge is exciting, and being part of such a big club, surrounded by top players, is something I’m relishing right now.

“To be part of the senior Scotland squad means everything. Playing for your country is the highest honour in football. Thinking back to when I was a kid, running around in a Scotland jersey, to be here now as part of the national team—it’s incredibly special.”