Andrew Moran has been hailed as a “phenomenal” prospect after making his senior international debut.

The Albion attacking midfielder on loan at Blackburn Rovers went on in the closing stages of the Republic of Ireland’s 1-1 draw in a friendly at home to New Zealand.

Albion fans are following his efforts at Ewood Park with interest.

Former Seagulls youth coach Mark Beard, who worked with Moran at the club, said: “I spoke to him a couple of days ago and he just hoped he would get some minutes.

“Even if he hadn’t, it was still an amazing experience to be at that stadium and around those players.

“He is unbelievable. He is the best player I’ve worked with.

“I know I say that about Evan Ferguson but consistently, week in and week out, Andy Moran is a phenomenal player.

“I played 4-4-2 and played Andy off Zak Emmerson and then Evan.

“I said to the other coaches who used to shout at the players, ‘When he gets the ball, don’t tell him anything’ .

“I did that because I knew he could pick passes no one else could see or he could just put one in the top corner.”

Moran tweeted after his debut: “Dreamt of this moment for as long as I can remember. The biggest honour making my debut last night in front of the Irish fans.”