Lopetegui impressed by the West Ham striker he had not met before

West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui has heaped praise on striker Andy Irving and believes the 24-year-old has all the tools to become a top player very soon.

The Edinburgh-born striker has received his first international call-up following recent West Ham appearances under Lopetegui this season.

“The whole dressing room loves him so we are very happy, he deserves it (the Scotland call-up),” Lopetegui told The Herald Scotland.

“Hopefully he will also experience more moments with us, because he always works hard.

“He is adapting to the level and physical demands of the Premier League. I think he is a very talented player with the ball. He will definitely improve and we are happy for him.

“When I came in he was a player I didn’t know at first, but after he showed he understands football he played well.

“Technically he is a very good player. I think if he can adapt his physical rhythm in the Premier League he will become a very interesting player.” – said Lopetegui.