Adelaide United's Riley McGree has admitted he didn't believe it when a Football Federation Australia (FFA) representative called him about his Caltex Socceroos selection.
McGree, 18, was a shock pick in Australia's extended 30-man squad that was announced by coach Ange Postecoglou on Wednesday.
McGree made his senior debut for the Reds last season when he came off the bench in stoppage time in Round 24 but has quickly become one of Guillermo Amor's main men in 2016/17.
Riley on his call-up
"Honestly, I was a bit lost for words… yeah, I was lost for words.
I didn't know what to say to the bloke. I didn't really think it was true to be honest.
"I told my dad prior to it being announced and he was obviously delighted and really happy for me but I let my mum find out through the announcement and she was obviously on top of the world and screaming and all this stuff, so it was good."
Ange on Riley
"I just think he’s a really exciting talent. I watched him from the first couple of games he played and he kind of makes you stand up and notice him straight away for a young guy.
"He's been playing not in his best position for his club who are going through a difficult time and he's shown a real good temperament and an ability to tackle the task in front of him.
"Riley is a good chance to make the 23. He's not there just to put his name amongst the 30 players, he's in the frame."
The Caltex Socceroos tackle UAE in a crucial World Cup Qualifier in Sydney on March 28. Click here for tickets