Wigan starlet James McCarthy hopes his debut for the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday will end suggestions he could play for Scotland.
The Scottish-born 19-year-old midfielder finally featured for Ireland's senior side in Tuesday's 2-0 friendly defeat to Brazil at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium.
And McCarthy is delighted to get a chance to feature for Geovanni Trappatoni's side, having already featured for Ireland at Under 17, Under 19 and Under 21 level, given recent speculation that Scotland coach Craig Levein was looking to get him to switch allegiances.
"I was delighted just to get on the park and make my debut," McCarthy told skysports.com.
"That's it put to bed now [the Scotland speculation] and from day one I wasn't going to change anyway.
"I just need to keep working hard with my club and hopefully get more international recognition.
"I was a bit nervous about being the new boy in the squad but everyone made me welcome. They are a good bunch of lads and I am delighted to make my debut.
"It is brilliant to be honest to make your debut against top opposition like Brazil and the only disappointment was the result."