Former Hearts midfielder Andy Irving scored an impressive hat-trick last night which could have a significant impact on the destiny of the Austrian title.
The 23-year-old - who left Hearts in 2021 - plays for Austria Klagenfurt in the top flight of the country.
He was snapped up by West Ham United last summer on deadline day of the window in September but was immediately loaned back to the Bundesliga club. However, things were kept under wraps, as neither club confirmed this deal until December of last year.
So far this season, the Hammers loanee has scored eight goals and made four assists in what has been a telling contribution for his side, who currently sit fifth in the top six split of the division.
🇦🇹| 𝑨 𝑯𝒂𝒕-𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒌 𝑨𝒃𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒅
— Everything Scotland 🏴 (@AboutScotlandd) April 24, 2024
West Ham loanee and former Hearts midfielder Andy Irving scored a hat-trick today as Austria Klagenfurt came from 2-0 down to beat league leaders RB Salzburg 4-3!pic.twitter.com/9eeepPeFD9
Irving scored three times in 22 minutes as Klagenfurt produced the unlikeliest of comebacks from 2-0 down against the then-league leaders RB Salzburg.
The defeat for Salzburg has opened the door for Sturm Graz - Mac Johnston's club - to go on to seal the title.
READ MORE: Kick-off time of Scottish Cup final between Rangers & Celtic
With West Ham potentially changing manager in the summer, with pressure mounting on David Moyes, Irving could potentially get a chance at the London Stadium.
Irving has represented Scotland at Under-17, U19 and U21 level.
The Edinburgh-born midfielder made 61 first team appearances at Tynecastle before moving onto pastures new three years ago.
He scored five goals and provided 13 assists during that time, as he played a pivotal role during the most recent Championship winning season.
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