Navy Blues chairman Ivan Vuksich confirmed Irving’s signing on the same day the club confirmed the acquisition of ace marksman Roy Krishna.
“We are delighted that John has decided to play his football at Auckland City this summer.
“He is a top class defender who will add further depth and quality to our squad,” Vuksich said, “We look forward to welcoming John to Kiwitea Street as we look forward to what promises to be another exciting season of football.”
Irving becomes the second Auckland City FC player with Ngaruawahia United connections in recent times with former midfielder Matt Williams turning out alongside the Scouse import.
The 23-year-old has contributed much as Ngaruawahia United chase promotion to the Northern Premier League.
Irving turned down fellow ASB Premiership outfits WaiBop United, Hawke’s Bay United, Canterbury United and Team Wellington.
The prospect of taking on the best and a FIFA Club World Cup in Morocco proved too strong a lure for Irving to miss.
“I turned down European football to come here and play in New Zealand and I didn’t want to miss out again,” Irving told the Waikato Times today.
“There’s another chance to play in a big tournament, which not many players get.”
“I’ve really enjoyed everything since I got here and I’m not looking at moving anywhere else,” he said.
Auckland City have also signed classy striker Roy Krishna from crosstown rivals and defending champions Waitakere United.
Liverpool-born Irving is a speedy defender who is comfortable at either centre back or full back.
He was a model of consistency for Everton’s reserve side and was named their Reserve Player of the Year for 2006/2007 after being given the captain’s armband in February 2007.
Irving’s ability and reliability has been acknowledged at international level, with appearances for England under 16s.
Story courtesy Auckland City FC.
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