It's Fergie's time, as young striker called up by Ireland

Evan Ferguson says it’s a dream come true to get his first senior call-up to the Ireland squad.

The 18-year-old, who has played ten times for his country at under-21 level, will join up with Stephen Kenny’s squad for the first time on Monday ahead of friendlies at home to Norway and in Malta.

It will be a special moment for Ferguson, who says he has grown up dreaming of playing for Ireland’s senior team.

“I am absolutely buzzing with the news,” said the striker. “When I found out I was delighted to get my first call-up.

“Every young Irish kid grows up dreaming of pulling on the shirt and playing in front of a packed-out Aviva Stadium when they’re older, so if I get that chance next week it will be an amazing moment for me.

“This is something I’ve been working towards for a long time. Being in and around the first team and in front of big crowds will give me an opportunity to learn and will be a brilliant experience.

“It’s a dream I’ve had since I started playing so hopefully I can get it ticked off next week.”

After Kenny told him on the phone, the teenager spoke to family and friends to share the good news and he says they were just as delighted as he was.

“I was told before training on Thursday and I couldn’t wait to tell my family and friends. They were all so happy for me and proud of me.

“They’ve given me a lot of help and support and it was nice to tell them the good news. Now I just can’t wait to join up with the squad.

“It’s Norway first and, you never know, I might learn a thing or two from one of their strikers! Playing against top players like Erling Haaland will only help my game.

“International football is the highest level and it will be good to test myself against the best.”