Andy Irving Hearts exit confirmed as midfielder reveals reasons for Germany move

Andy Irving has left Hearts after completing a surprise move to the German third tier.

Andy Irving has left Hearts after completing a move to Germany. (Photo by Ross Parker / SNS Group)

The midfielder’s Tynecastle contract expired earlier this month and he has now agreed terms with Türkgücü Munchen, the 3. Liga side based in the Turkish community of Munich, after rejecting the chance to remain at Hearts for the return to the Scottish Premiership.

Hearts will receive an undisclosed training compensation fee for the 21-year-old who spent 13 years at the club progressing through the youth ranks.

Speaking to his new club’s website, Irving said: "I had the big dream of playing in Germany for some time.

"Türkgücü Munich noticed me early on and tried very hard for me. The club and its visions convinced me straight away, which is why I really wanted to be a part of this team and this club. I'm really excited to see what it's like to play in another country and I really want to prove myself in this league. "

Roman Plesche, sporting director at Türkgücü Munich, hailed the capture of a “talented playmaker”.

"With his good physique, his extraordinary left foot and also his ability to steer a game, Andy already brings some important components to his game at the age of 21,” he said.

"He has experienced a lot in Scotland in the past few years and has the experience of over 100 games as a senior, now he can develop himself further in a new environment with us. "

Hearts wanted Irving to stay and offered him at least two contracts in recent months, none of which were accepted, despite the club insisting that the terms proposed were lucrative for a young player who broke into the Scotland Under-21 squad last season.

Irving is believed to have sought assurances over playing time next season having been in and out of the side, along with a contract befitting an established first-team regular.

He made 29 appearances and scored three goals across all competitions last term. Hearts won the Scottish Championship title with time to spare and Irving managed six league assists – joint-third in the division – and was named in the Championship Team of the Year.

A Hearts statement read: “The club wishes Andrew the best of luck with the next chapter of his career.”

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