Manchester United's Paddy McNair welcomes international recognition

Paddy McNair has expressed his delight at having been included in the Northern Ireland senior squad for the first time.

The 19-year-old was tipped to be named in Michael O'Neill's selection for last month's round of international matches, but he was sidelined by a hamstring injury.

However, the Manchester United defender has now returned to fitness and he could make his debut in a Euro 2016 qualifier against Romania next week.

"It's really good. When I was growing up, I always aimed to play for my country. Obviously, as I've been playing for United, one of the biggest clubs in the world, I did hope I would receive the call," he told the club's official website.

"I'm really happy to get called up. I could have been involved last month for the Faroe Islands and Greece games, so it's great I've been recalled to join the squad for Romania."

Centre-back McNair has made three appearances for United this season.