Mark Sykes has described his pride in earning his first cap after representing Republic of Ireland over the international break.
Bristol City's summer signing was introduced as a late substitute in Ireland's 1-0 victory over Malta, after switching his allegiance from Northern Ireland two years ago. He became the first Belfast-born player to play for the Boys in Green in 76 years.
Sykes, 25, has been one of City's most consistent performers this season having faced the difficulty of stepping up from League One while also playing in his unfamiliar right wing-back position, starting 17 Championship fixtures under Nigel Pearson.
