Republic of Ireland striker Sinclair Armstrong reflected on an emotional few days after unexpectedly earning his first senior cap and then getting on target for the under-21 side.
The 20-year-old QPR attacker made his senior debut against Netherlands last Sunday night, being introduced in the closing minutes as Ireland chased an equaliser.
He subsequently linked back in with the U21s, leading the line in the 3-0 win against San Marino, laying on the first goal for Rocco Vata and then finally, after numerous close shave, forcing home the third himself from (very) close range in the second half.
"It's been a whirlwind few days," Armstrong said, in conversation the RTÉ Soccer panel post-game.
"On Friday morning, I'm thinking I'm going to play my first game with the 21s. And next thing, the gaffer Mr Crawford tells me, you're going to the senior team.
"Very emotional on the journey up to Castleknock. It's something I've dreamed of since I was a kid, to play with the Ireland senior team. It's a dream come true."
Sinclair Armstrong reflects on a "dream" week that saw him make his senior debut and score on his competitive debut for Ireland U21s in their 3-0 win over San Marino
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) September 12, 2023
📱 Match report: https://t.co/IokHflr93K pic.twitter.com/kDfNPZKwyJ
The Dubliner, who began at Cherry Orchard before appearing at the FAI Cup at 15 with Shamrock Rovers, has made a strong start to the season with QPR, scoring his first goal for the club in the away win over Cardiff City.
"Last season just wasn't my season. I couldn't get a run of games. I couldn't score any goals," Armstrong said.
"Over that summer break, I had to train as hard as I can and come back with a new mentality to go, listen, it's every man for themselves.
"I want to play in the Championship, I want to play for QPR. That's exactly what I'm doing. Four games in and I have two goal contributions.
"I know by my standards, that's not enough. I want to keep playing games, keep scoring a few goals for QPR. Getting my senior debut for the Republic of Ireland, and scoring tonight in Cork is only going to instil more confidence into me.
"I don't want to be a guy that just runs in behind, like a sprint merchant. I want to bring other stuff into my game.
"I'm still young. I'm 20 years of age, I feel like I have a lot to give."
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