Massimo Luongo admitted it was a massive thrill to receive his first call-up to the Australian national team.
The 21-year old Swindon Town midfielder has been called into the Socceroos' 23-man squad by head coach Ange Postecoglou for next month's friendly with Ecuador in London.
Luongo, who has become first choice with the League One Robins since joining permanently from Tottenham in August 2013, is part of a new generation of Europe-based Australian youngsters and was absolutely delighted to be included in the setup.
"I think it's the first time I've ever officially been called up at any level, so it's a big moment in my career, in my life," Luongo told Fox Sports.
"I couldn't have asked for anything more, coming from Australia.
"I'm just happy to be in Ange's mind, just to be acknowledged."
And Luongo, who grew up in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, admits he may have to change his European summer holiday plans if he happens to crack Postecoglou's final World Cup squad.
"Only because it coincides with my holidays," he said when asked if he had pondered the chance to head to Brazil.
"But it has crossed my mind a little bit. I'm not expecting anything, because I know it's my first call-up.
"I've booked a trip to Turkey already, so that will probably have to go.
"I was thinking maybe a couples retreat in Italy, that might have to go as well.
"My missus would be fuming, but I think she'll forgive me if she gets a couple of nights in Brazil."
Luongo spent time on loan with Swindon last season before moving permanently to the Country Ground at the end of the campaign. During his temporary and enduring stays in Wiltshire, Luongo has made a total of 50 appearances in all competitions, scoring eight goals for the Robins.
