Andy Irving has just shown Graham Potter why he’s the perfect West Ham player
Andy Irving has played a bit part role in West Ham’s midfield ever since signing.
Irving signed for West Ham in March 2024 in a shock move from SK Austria Klagenfurt to link up with David Moyes’ squad before his ultimate departure.
This saw the 25-year-old make his debut in a 3-0 defeat against Chelsea under Julen Lopetegui, just four months later at the London Stadium.
Since then, the Scot has made just 13 appearances, but that hasn’t stopped the likes of Celtic showing interest in signing Irving in recent months.
With that being said, Irving has now proved exactly why Graham Potter needs to keep hold of the midfielder after he spoke out in East London.
Andy Irving shows his worth to West Ham
It did feel as if Potter could move Irving on from West Ham, especially after falling to an opening day defeat against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
This saw Irving get linked with a move to Wrexham, although a transfer never went through before the window came to a close.
Although this may have been frustrating to a certain section of supporters in E20, it looks as if this was the ideal decision for Potter and his squad.
This comes as, despite not being the flashiest player in the world, the Scotland international has grit and determination that isn’t necessarily a feature for others.
Irving has showcased this himself in an interview via the official West Ham website on 10 September after being named on the bench in the first three Premier League games of the season.
He said: “It can be tough [not starting games], and I think there are periods that you go through when it can be difficult. Every day you’re going out to training with the focus on the weekend. You’re working towards the game, and everyone wants to play.
“I’ll always do my best for the team anytime I’m given the opportunity, and I’ll give it my all and show what I can do like I did against Nottingham Forest.
“I’m motivated, and I’m determined to do well, and anytime I get the opportunity, I’ll be there, and I’ll be ready.”
Andy Irving must now be utilised ahead of Guido Rodriguez
Rodriguez may have won the World Cup, but there is no getting away from the poor level of performance he has put on show.
| Stat(Premier League 24/25) | Guido Rodriguez |
| Starts | 1 |
| Duels won | 1 |
| Dribbled past | 1 |
| Recoveries | 4 |
| Expected goals | 0.03 |
This hasn’t been helped by constant links to the likes of Saudi Arabia as he goes in search of a boosted contract for the rest of the campaign.
With monetary gain seemingly being a key part of Rodriguez’s ambition right now, it would make more sense for the Hammers to hand Irving more minutes than the 31-year-old.
By comparison, the former Hearts midfielder is six years younger and also has the desire to succeed at West Ham at any cost, something which could make him an ideal option for Potter moving forward.
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