Wigan Athletic midfielder James McCarthy was thrilled to make his Republic of Ireland debut in this week's friendly defeat to Brazil.
McCarthy reveals it was a great experience to face the galaxy of South American footballing superstars.
He told the Scottish Sun: "It was brilliant to play against guys like Kaka and Robinho.
"It was a dream come true for me but to be honest I just need to keep working hard.
"Hopefully I can get more caps from now on but I'm realistic enough to know I haven't really achieved anything yet.
"There were a few butterflies when the boss told me I was going on. I had been warming up hoping to get the call so it was amazing when he told me to get stripped.
"I was a bit nervous at first but as soon as I went on the park I blocked it all out and just played my game. It's been incredible just how quickly I have progressed. It's all happened so fast.
"To go from the youth team to the Under-21s and now playing against Brazil is amazing. I'm just delighted to be part of it all and now I just need to keep it going."
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