Throughout his developing career so far, Kieran Morrison receives a phone call from his father following each match.

The routine remained unchanged when he earned his senior Northern Ireland debut against Guinea on Thursday.

Standing on the pitch amid the intense La Linea heat, near the Rock of Gibraltar, he discussed his opening 45 minutes in a green jersey with his dad.

"He explained areas where I could improve and highlighted what went well," a proud Morrison noted.

"This happens after every game. He serves as my coach and has guided me since I was four.

"He contacts me after each match until I respond. I appreciate having that support, whether it involves feedback or encouragement."

Although he has made just two senior Liverpool outings under the former manager Arne Slot in the EFL Cup and FA Cup, Morrison received a call-up to Michael O'Neill's senior group for the World Cup play-off versus Italy in March.

He remained unused in Bergamo and the subsequent friendly against Wales, yet he featured in the 1-0 victory over Guinea in Spain.

"At the season's outset I would not have anticipated this," he remarked regarding his status as a Northern Ireland international.

"I feel great pride, as does my family. I am thrilled."

Donning the number nine jersey, renowned for David Healy's scoring feats years ago, Morrison featured for the first half of the friendly versus the African opponents.

With an average age of 22.1, he formed part of the youngest starting lineup recorded since World War Two concluded, and he ranked among two new caps.

Arsenal youngster Ceadach O'Neill entered from the substitutes' bench, while Blackburn Rovers defender Tom Atcheson netted the decisive goal yet received a red card on his initial start.

"I felt surprised seeing the number nine. I have rarely worn nine before," Morrison added.

"I anticipated 10 or 17 perhaps, yet I take pride in wearing number nine.

"It means a lot and I will treasure the memory."

He also voiced pride in fellow debutant O'Neill, who progressed through the Northern Ireland pathway at the JD Academy.

"Ceadach and I share a close bond. I teased him about his number [O'Neill wore 13], noting it suits a goalkeeper.

"Still, I felt proud seeing him make his debut. He earned the opportunity.

"It marked a special occasion for him and his family."