Source: Team_Talk
Irvine thanks North End fans
North End lost 1-0 at Bramall Lane as United won 2-1 on aggregate but Irvine was unable to thank the 3,000 travelling fans for their backing.
A number of Blades followers invaded the pitch to celebrate their team's win and Irvine decided against heading towards the Preston fans.
"I have to apologise because I didn't go over and acknowledge their support," said Irvine.
"I had every intention of doing so but because all of the Sheffield United fans ran onto the pitch I felt it probably wasn't a good idea to be on there.
"I'm disappointed and I'm sorry that I wasn't able to do that."