Irvine has English clubs interested

Scotland-based Australia international midfielder Jackson Irvine is inching towards a move to the English Championship as a reward for a stellar season with Scottish League Cup winners Ross County.

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The former Celtic rookie, who won a recall to the Socceroos squad for the recent friendlies against England and Greece, has made no secret of his desire to step outside the Scottish Premiership at some stage and it’s understood that two Championship sides are preparing bids this month.

The man of the match in County’s history-making 2-1 win over Hibernian in March’s domestic decider at Hampden park, Irvine, 23, was an almost ever-present for his club last season as his performances led to many questioning why Celtic – home to his close pal Tom Rogic – let him leave in the first place.

He is contracted by County, for whom he made 41 appearances last season, until mid-2017.

They signed him from the Bhoys initially on loan before a full transfer. He also had a loan spell at Kilmarnock and has grown in stature with each passing season in Scotland’s top flight.

With the interest intestifying, Irvine, who can be deployed in both holding and attacking midfield roles, said recently of his future: “Every player wants to progress and if you get the chance you want to take it.

“To be spoken about (in terms of clubs being interested) is a good thing.

“If your name is being mentioned it shows that you must be doing something right.”

Irvine featured as late substitute in the 2-1 loss to England, and 1-0 win over Greece to bring his tally of Australia caps to four.