Massimo Luongo admits he was thrilled at making his first appearance for the Australian national team this week.
The 21-year old Swindon Town midfielder came on for the final 15 minutes of the Socceroos' 4-3 friendly loss to Ecuador at The Den in London on Wednesday night after his side led 3-0 at half-time.
Despite the agonising defeat, which came after Mitch Langerak was sent off, former Tottenham youngster Luongo was pleased to get some international experience as he now looks forward to a possible World Cup call-up.
"That game just sums up football. It was end to end in the second-half and having Mitch Langerak sent off was the key moment of the game," Luongo said.
"But I couldn't be happier at making my debut and the lads did great overall. It was hard being down to ten men for over half an hour and you have to applaud the lads.
"After Mitch was sent off I wasn't sure whether the boss (Ange Postecoglou) would change his mind about sending me on, but fortunately he didn't.
"I wasn't nervous at all, I just wanted to do my best and I was happy with what I was able to show.
"I felt comfortable out there and the boys helped a lot. There was no pressure and they were all encouraging."
