Watch Evan Ferguson net on international debut to become Ireland's youngest scorer since Tottenham, Liverpool and Celtic star

The 18-year-old, making his first senior international start for the Boys in Green, netted the Republic’s second goal in their 3-2 home friendly victory over Latvia.

The teenager’s goal made him the Republic of Ireland’s youngest goal scorer since legendary forward Robbie Keane.

The ex-Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Celtic striker hit a double in the Republic’s 5-0 home win over Malta in UEFA European Championship qualifying in 1998.

Speaking to BBC Northern Ireland, Ferguson said: "At the end of the day it's just another game of football but it's obviously a special moment.

"A goal for your country, there's no other feeling."

Callum O’Dowda gave the hosts a sixth minute lead, before Ferguson doubled the Republic’s lead from close-range 11 minutes later.

Roberts Uldriķis’ howitzer reduced the home side’s advantage on 33 minutes, and then Artūrs Zjuzins equalised on the stroke of half-time.

Second half substitute Chiedozie Ogbene grabbed what proved to be the Republic of Ireland’s winner on 65 minutes.

Ferguson has been a revelation since making his full Premier League debut for Brighton at Southampton on Boxing Day.

The teenager came off the bench to score his first career league goal in Albion’s 4-2 home loss to top-of-the-table Arsenal on New Year’s Eve.

His goal against the Gunners saw Ferguson become both the Seagulls’ and the Republic of Ireland’s youngest ever goal scorer in the Premier League.

He has since taken his tally to six goals in 14 senior appearances for Brighton this season.