New Hammers fan favourite Andy Irving reportedly drives a very modest car compared to his West Ham teammates. It has also been reported that, at just 24, he is already thinking ahead to life after his career and has made investments to support his family when his playing days come to an end.

The Scottish midfielder has had a fairly unconventional route to Premier League football. Coming through the Hearts academy, Irving spent time on loan in the Scottish fifth tier with Berwick Rangers before joining Scottish Championship side Falkirk on loan.

The 24 year old made 61 appearances for Hearts before signing for German fourth division side Turkgucu Munchen in the summer of 2021 spending a year at the club. Irving’s career then took him to Austria where he signed for Austrian Bundesliga side SK Austria Klagenfurt.

Irving joined West Ham in the summer of 2023, though there was never an official announcement confirming his move to the Club. He spent last season back on loan with SK Austria Klagenfurt before officially linking up with the West Ham squad at the start of this season. The midfielder has gone on to become a cult hero in East London.

A recent article by the Athletic, discussed Irving’s season to date, how he has impressed Graham Potter in training and with his mentality, as well as his life away from football. The 24 year old reportedly drives a Nissan Juke, rather modest compared to the super cars driven by many of his team mates. The Athletic also claims the Hammers man has invested in real estate to set himself up for a comfortable life as well as support his family once he hangs up his boots.

Having had opportunities to leave the Club in the summer, Irving opted to remain in East London. The midfielder has made 10 appearances in all competitions so far this season, nine in the Premier League and one in the Carabao Cup. The Scotsman’s hard work in training saw Graham Potter reward him with his first start in the Premier League away at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea.

Hammers fans have already grown a strong affinity towards the Scottish midfielder. This was evident in the numerous chants from the Stamford Bridge away end sung by the travelling supporters referencing the 24 year old.

Irving has played more football than many would have expected this season, even with his role having mainly been as a squad player. The 24 year old will certainly be feeling all the love and warmth directed his way from West Ham supporters. If Irving continues working hard, his confidence will continue to grow the more opportunities he is afforded.

Should Irving carry on his development and transition from an unknown name to many outside the Club to a player earning regular minutes in the top flight, the fact his contract expires next summer means conversations of a new deal and a longer term future at West Ham could become a real possibility.