Jackson Irvine, who previously represented Hull City in a three-year spell ending in 2020, has spoken publicly about the advice he provided to Lucas Herrington following the Australian defender’s transfer to the MKM Stadium during the recent summer window.
The 18-year-old centre-back completed a reported £17 million switch to the Tigers after just eight months with Major League Soccer franchise Colorado Rapids.
Herrington had broken into senior football with Brisbane Roar as a 16-year-old in 2024, marking a swift progression through the professional ranks.
Irvine, who earned 112 caps for Hull City across three seasons from 2017, revealed that Herrington initiated contact to seek guidance ahead of the move.
According to Irvine, the young defender sought insight into the club and requested general advice, with the senior player describing his willingness to assist.
Irvine noted that Hull possesses a distinctive character when positivity prevails throughout the city, describing it as an exceptional environment under favourable circumstances.
Irvine expressed understanding of the intense scrutiny facing a teenage player making such a significant career step, acknowledging the enormous public attention that accompanies moves of this magnitude.
The former Hull defender conveyed hope that Herrington would not perceive the considerable media discussion as placing unfair expectations upon him, emphasizing that the commentary stems from genuine enthusiasm and support within Australian football circles.
Reflecting on the remarkable speed of Herrington’s progression from Brisbane Roar through Colorado Rapids to the Premier League in approximately seven months, Irvine described it as a journey while also acknowledging the substantial competitive challenges that lie ahead.
The experienced campaigner expressed confidence in the youngster’s ability to continue advancing, suggesting there exists no fundamental barrier preventing further development at the highest level of the English game.