Midfielder Andy Irving, who joined Sparta Prague from West Ham United, was linked with Celtic earlier in the season. Former Arsenal and Czechia star Tomas Rosicky, the club’s sporting director, was the reason behind the signing. Rosicky told the Sparta Prague website that they know Andy well from his time in the Austrian league, where he was very productive, and have been monitoring him since that time. He described Irving as a left-footed, smart, hard-working, and constructive midfielder with good vision, who can change the pace and focus of the game and has an aptitude for combination play. Rosicky added that at the same time, Irving is diligent in defence and conscientiously fulfills defensive tasks. His quick decision-making, movement, game activity, and solving situations have impressed them, and Rosicky stated they are very happy that he will join their backup players.

West Ham United have confirmed that midfielder Andy Irving has joined Sparta Prague on a permanent transfer for a fee that was not disclosed. Irving was with the Hammers for two-and-a-half years, made 18 first-team appearances, and earned a senior Scotland cap during his time at the club.

Sparta Praha has signed 25-year-old midfielder Andrew Irving from West Ham. The Scottish international made 17 Premier League appearances for the English side, who acquired him from Austria Klagenfurt for a fee of €1.8 million. Norwich City and Wrexham were also recently linked with the player, and a deal with Wrexham, reported to be for £3.5 million, collapsed in the summer of 2025.