WATCH: All Whyte on night as rising star Gavin shines in goal-scoring debut for Northern Ireland
'It was a special moment - I will never forget'
Last updated 12th Sep 2018
What a night to remember for Gavin Whyte…
The former Crusaders star, now with League One side Oxford United, scored with his first touch of the ball after a dream debut for Northern Ireland against Israel at the National Stadium at Windsor Park.
Whyte came on with 25 minutes to go – just one minute and 46 seconds later he slotted home from close range to give Michael O’Neill’s side a 3-0 win.
The 22-year-old said it was something that will stay with him forever.
“It was a special moment even to get on the pitch but to score with my first touch is a moment I will never forget,” he said.
“The only thing to do is to hit it quickly and thankfully it went in.”
“My mum is away on holidays – she rung me to say all the best – but I am going to have to send her the highlights.”
Regarding his move to Oxford United, he said: “It has been amazing – I still can’t believe it.
“It’s all happened so quickly – I am enjoying my football. I’ll just have to keep working hard and wee where it takes me.”
Boss Michael O’Neill is delighted with Whyte’s progress.
“Since we have seen him this week, he looks stronger,” he said.
“He is able to stay on the ball better – he is very sharp – his football brain has automatically improved because his physicality is better.