Berahino is on 'Wright' track

Irvine might even consider some one-on-one masterclasses for Berahino with his former Crystal Palace team-mate, who scored more than 300 career goals including 113 in the Premier League.

But he has told the 21-year-old he must retain his focus if he hopes to emulate the Arsenal great.

"I played with Ian at Crystal Palace and Wrighty had that energy and enthusiasm and wanted to run in behind people," said Irvine.

"I have actually done a couple of things with him in the last few weeks on the radio and television, and I have been chatting with him about Saido.

"What Saido needs to do is keep on running in behind defenders because it is a real strength of his.

"If he keeps doing that then defenders won't like it and he will keep on getting his opportunities.

"I'm not saying he is as good as Ian but he is that type of player and he is heading in that direction.

"Ian became better and better as he went on, and that was down to what he already had plus the fact he never lost his enthusiasm.

"He always had that approach to the game and his training.

"Ian was one who stayed behind at the end of training and practised.

"Saido has got to remain blinkered and let things that are going to happen, happen, and just focus on playing well.

"The big danger would be if he gets distracted by anything else that goes on, or if he just loses that little bit of focus."

Berahino already remains behind regularly for extra training with Irvine and coaches Rob Kelly and Keith Downing.

But Irvine has not ruled out asking the charismatic Wright to work with the 21-year-old.

"I would be frightened what he might do with him!" joked Irvine.

"It might happen, if I feel Saido could do with a little bit of extra help, I might well do that.

"But it's not something I am thinking about at this moment in time.

"Funnily enough I have spoken to Saido and said that Ian and I have chatted about him.

"But I don't even know if Saido remembers who Ian is. I have got to remember what age I am!"