Eoin Toal is hoping to cap a big week in his career by helping Wanderers get back on the winning trail.
Toal made his senior Northern Ireland debut on Tuesday night when he lined up for his country in a Euro 2024 qualifier in Belfast.
And while a 1-0 defeat to Group H leaders Slovenia denied the Whites’ defender a winning start, it was still a memorable occasion for the former Derry City man.
“It means a lot,” said Toal, who had previously been capped at U21 level. “To represent my country was an honour. It was a proud moment for me and my family and was great to get my debut.
“It's always something that I wanted to achieve and I'm glad it happened while I was playing at Bolton.
“The results haven't gone our way this campaign but there's going to be a new one coming soon. Hopefully I can keep progressing here at the club and get selected for the following games.”
After becoming the 10th Wanderers’ player to represent Northern Ireland at senior level, Toal returns to club duty with the Whites looking to resume their League One challenge with victory over Northampton Town on Saturday.
A 3-1 home loss to Carlisle a fortnight ago ended hopes of a hat-trick of league wins for Ian Evatt’s men.
And Toal knows a positive response is needed against the Cobblers as Wanderers aim to start closing the gap again on the top two in a busy run ahead of the next international break next month.
“It’s full focus now on these next few games, especially Saturday. It's a big one for us and hopefully we can get the three points,” he added.
“We didn't show our true colours in the last game and hopefully we can really pick ourselves up now.
“It's vitally important for us, especially at home. The international break is over now and we've got a good run of games. Hopefully Saturday will kick start a bit of momentum and a good run for us.”
Watch the full interview with Eoin on Wanderers TV HERE