Caolan Boyd-Munce voiced his delight after receiving his first call-up to the Northern Ireland senior squad.
The Middlesbrough midfielder has been drafted into Ian Baraclough's panel to replace Aberdeen winger Matty Kennedy who has withdrawn through injury.
Northern Ireland take on Luxembourg and Hungary in back-to-back friendlies at the end of the month.
Read more: Northern Ireland call-up a shock and a "dream" for Sunderland teenager Trai Hume
Boyd-Munce has impressed for Middlesbrough since joining the Championship club in January, and also for Northern Ireland Under 21s where he has become a key figure in John Schofield's side.
The former Birmingham City man said on Twitter: "Over the moon to receive the call up."
Boyd-Munce joined Middlesbrough from Birmingham during the January transfer window and made his debut against Barnsley on February 26. He has also been on the bench for Boro's last two league games.
He has already made his mark in the FA Cup, scoring in a 3-2 win over Mansfield in the third round of the competition back in January.
Boyd-Munce has represented Northern Ireland at Under 17 and 19 level, making 14 appearances for the older age group.
Northern Ireland face Luxembourg at Stade de Luxembourg on Friday, March 25 before taking on Hungary in another friendly on Tuesday, March 29.
Baraclough named his squad on Monday which also included young Sunderland defender Trai Hume.
Read more: Northern Ireland boss Ian Baraclough probed on Glentoran star's absence from squad
Read more: NI boss Ian Baraclough addresses Liam Boyce's ongoing absence from international squad
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