O'Reilly: 'One of the biggest moments in my career'

England starlet Nico O’Reilly expressed his delight after joining up with the senior squad for the first time earlier today.

The defender replaces Reece James who withdrew through injury, with O’Reilly stepping up from the under-21s, having been initially selected by Lee Carsley for the Young Lions’ squad.

And after arriving at St. George’s Park this morning ahead of the October internationals, the 20 year old was all smiles.

“Everything has happened so fast but I’m enjoying every single minute of it,” he said.

“It’s a crazy feeling. I’m so happy to be here. It’s definitely one of the biggest moments in my career and in my life being here.

“I wasn’t expecting it. It’s always been a goal and a dream of mine to be in the senior squad and now it’s happened.

“The seniors is the main goal and where everyone wants to be. It’s a surreal feeling.”

O’Reilly, who has nine appearances to his name this season and counting, was informed of the news after Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Brentford yesterday.

He links up with club team-mates John Stones and James Trafford – who both congratulated O’Reilly upon touch-down in Burton – in Thomas Tuchel’s team.

“I got a call from Thomas last night after the game and he let me know,” O’Reilly continued.

“First, I got a text – I had to double check it – when I was on the team bus on the way back from the game. As soon as I got off the bus, I gave him a call in my car.

“He just said that he’d love to have me in the squad, he’s been watching for quite a while, he sees I’m doing well and he’s happy I’m playing a lot of games.

“I was just buzzing. I told my friends, told my mum and let a few people know. They said they were so proud of me, to soak it all in, enjoy every moment and be myself. Then I had to go to bed!

“I arrived this morning, met everyone – everyone was so welcoming – then got changed into my kit, had a few interviews, had to take a few pictures and I’m here now.”

Manchester-born O’Reilly has represented England at youth level, with his first camp coming with the under-15s before progressing through the ranks, with his MU20s debut coming in September last year.

“I did the U15s, U16s, U17s, U18s and U20s,” he explained. “I missed the U19s because I was injured and I was supposed to go to the U21s last month but I got an injury just before it.”

Now, focus shifts to England’s upcoming international against Wales at Wembley Stadium on Thursday 9 October (7.45pm BST kick-off) before the Three Lions continue their World Cup qualifying campaign away to Latvia on Tuesday 14 October (7.45pm BST kick-off).

“I just want to work hard in training and impress everyone, get to know new people and have a good time,” O’Reilly added.

“I can’t wait to get out on the pitch with the lads and get started!”