Julen Lopetegui influence shared after Andy Irving transfer decision at West Ham United
Andy Irving was convinced to stay at West Ham this summer by Julen Lopetegui amid interest from clubs across Europe, according to The Athletic.
Roshane Thomas reported on 12 October that before Lopetegui's first pre-season had even begun, the Spaniard personally intervened to prevent recent Scotland call-up Irving from moving to Espanyol.
Further interest late in the summer transfer window had seen Celtic, St Pauli and Sturm Graz all inquire about signing Irving, but Lopetegui maintained his stance and the midfielder stayed put in East London.
Lopetegui's value of Irving's ability to provide much-needed squad depth at the London Stadium was behind the latter decision, and the Scot has made three first-team appearances since.
Julen Lopetegui must act on Andy Irving influence at West Ham
Given Lopetegui appears to have been the difference between Irving staying or going at the London Stadium this summer, the 24-year-old may have been expecting more game-time than he's been given.
Irving's appearances so far amount to just three cameos off the bench, one of which was in the League Cup, with his long-awaited Hammers debut coming in a dismal 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea.
However, Irving's limited minutes have still been enough for him to earn a first call-up to Scotland's senior side, and a full international debut could see him rise up the pecking order for Lopetegui.
Establishing himself as a Premier League midfielder will be more difficult than doing the same in Spain, Scotland, Germany or Austria, but Irving will be keen to prove he can do just that.
Lopetegui convincing Irving to stay at the club could prove to be a masterstroke in the long run, but the onus is now on the Irons boss to hold up his side of the bargain.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channelfor instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.