Irving's 'mad' synchronicity of sharing cap debut with school mate Doig

WEST HAM midfielder Andy Irving reflected on a "perfect" Scotland debut after coming on at the same time as primary school friend Josh Doig.

- Gavin McCafferty

WEST HAM midfielder Andy Irving reflected on a "perfect" Scotland debut after coming on at the same time as primary school friend Josh Doig.

The pair were handed their introduction to international football from the subs bench just before the hour mark in Monday's 4-0 friendly win over Liechtenstein in Vaduz.

Both attended Newcraighall Primary School and then Portobello High School in Edinburgh and were on the books of Hearts before Doig ended up as a city rival with Hibernian.

Their careers have since taken them on divergent routes, with Doig, inset, making a name for himself in Italy, while Irving is now at West Ham after stints in Germany and Austria.

But their paths met up again in memorable fashion.

Irving, 25, said: "I loved it. Just over the moon, to be honest, to make my Scotland debut and get my first cap. I'm absolutely delighted.

"It's just amazing. It's something you dream of as a kid, playing for your country.