Sunderland youngster Craig Lynch was delighted to make his debut in defeat to Fulham.
Lynch admitted it was the thought of making the first team which kept him going during the long, hard road back from knee surgery.
"Four days into my full time career I was told I'd be out for a year, and at that point I never thought I'd get here at this stage of my career," he told fulhamfc.com.
"Thinking about this day has kept me going. Ever since I joined the club aged six I have wanted to play for the first team and hopefully this is just the start for me."
Lynch, who replaced Jordan Henderson 15 minutes from time against the Cottagers, added: "It was great to get out there and play.
"It was totally different to reserve level - a lot faster. The result was disappointing but it was nice to make my debut.
"After all it was what I've been waiting for since I joined the club. I enjoyed every minute and despite the scoreline it was still a brilliant experience and one I'll keep forever."
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