There was a double celebration for Brodie Spencer after he was crowned Huddersfield Town Academy Player of the Year.
The Shankill teenager emerged on top following another stellar season with the Championship club.
It also put the icing on the cake for Spencer who celebrates his 18th birthday today (Friday).
Read more: NI footballer using her studies to help dream of turning professional
"I am over the moon with the award. I am delighted," the defender told Belfast Live.
"The award is out of all the Under 18 players at Huddersfield, and there are some brilliant young players here. So that makes it even more special.
"I couldn't believe it when the club told me. I was just buzzing. To get the vote in front of all the other young players makes me very proud."
Former Cliftonville youngster Spencer Joined Huddersfield in the summer of 2020 and has progressed from the Under 18 ranks to the U23s.
He also signed his first professional contract last September and has already trained with the club's first team.
"I have been playing for the U23s all season and it has been another good year for me. I have had plenty of game time and some good performances," he added.
"I have also been in and around the first team so it has brought me on leaps and bounds. I am learning every day.
"Obviously the long-term goal is to play for the first team. That's what I am working hard for and hopefully my chance comes at some point."
For now, Spencer is back home in Belfast for the next six weeks where he will enjoy some downtime with his family.
And some birthday cake.
"It is always nice to be home and see everyone again," he said.
"I will enjoy a few weeks off and then head back and start all over again. Hopefully I am involved with the first-team during pre-season.
"I think Northern Ireland Under 19s have a camp at the start of June so my focus will be on getting in that squad. I love getting away with the lads."
One of Spencer's best pals is Nottingham Forest striker Dale Taylor.
Taylor - who has already represented Northern Ireland at senior level - congratulated Spencer on winning his award, and his birthday.
Belfast Boys' Model - Spencer's old school - also sent their congratulations.
"Dale is one of my best mates. We have been mates since we were kids and we always stay in touch and give each other advice," Spencer said.
"He is flying for Forest and was recently on the bench for the first-team. He has been up in their squad for a while but it was good seeing him on the bench.
"It was great to see my old school also get in touch."
Read more: Crusaders skipper Billy Joe Burns hoping to become a blue riband trivia question
Read more: Ballymena United captain Leroy Millar hoping to follow in footsteps of legends
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox
