Paddy Lane has revealed how his Northern Ireland call-up reduced his mum to tears.
The Fleetwood Town winger has been included in Ian Baraclough's squad for the upcoming friendlies against Luxembourg and Hungary.
Lane is one of two new faces in the panel, with Sunderland defender Trai Hume also getting the nod for the two games.
Read more: Mark Sykes named in Republic of Ireland squad for Belgium and Lithuania games
The 21-year-old was in the gym when Baraclough phoned to tell him of his inclusion.
“It was mind-blowing," Lane told Fleetwood Town's website.
"When I got the call, I was in the gym and I couldn’t hear who it was so I had to go out the room and the gaffer (Baraclough) said it was him and I couldn’t believe it.
"I knew I’d been working that hard and there were a few rumours floating around, but I never really thought anything of it, but I was shocked when he called me.
“I rang my mum, and she was in Marks & Spencer and she just started tearing up on the phone which was mental. I rang my dad as both have been there every step of the way, as well as every person in my family.
"They’ve been travelling all year watching me play and it’s great for them that they can enjoy the journey with me. My Grandma isn’t with us anymore, but she would have been buzzing for me – they are all over the moon for me.
“I’m enjoying this journey as much as them and I’m just happy to be sharing it with them, they’ve driven me everywhere for years on end and I’ll be forever grateful for that."
Lane added: "I can’t tell you how many times I said thank you on the phone, it was a mad amount, but I’m just looking forward to it now.
"Everything I’ve been focusing on is club football and this is just an extra that has come with it and, again, I wouldn’t be here without the club, the staff, and the players – it’s not just me that’s achieved it for myself.”
Lane, 21, who has represented Northern Ireland at underage level, has scored five goals in 32 appearances for Fleetwood this season.
He scored four of his goals in six appearances during January and February, stellar form that earned the attention of international boss Baraclough.
“It’s been a whirlwind," Lane said of his season so far.
"I just try to not look back and try and keep looking forward. I can’t reflect and see where it takes me because I’m enjoying it at the moment and will do it every step of the way.
"I knew I had what it takes, had the right people around me, and I landed on my feet well with Fleetwood."
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