Jay Stansfield was on cloud nine after making his senior debut in Saturday’s win over Aston Villa.
Since arriving from Exeter City’s academy in August, the 17-year-old has scored a remarkable 23 goals in 15 appearances at youth level for Fulham.
It was form that did not go unnoticed by Scott Parker, who rewarded the striker with an 82nd minute introduction in the Emirates FA Cup.
Speaking to the official website, Stansfield said: “The last four months since I came here, I’ve had the chance to train with the First Team and show them what I’ve got, and they will give you the chance if you perform well week in, week out, and that’s what they’ve done with me.
“I trained with the First Team on Monday and then went back to the 18s on Tuesday. We had New Year’s Day off and then it was a case of either go with the 23s to play, or be on the bench with the First Team.
“Luckily I got my chance to be on the bench and I was happy that I did get on and make my debut.
“It was a great experience. I was happy to be able to come here and do what I’ve done, and then get the chance to come on the pitch and show all the fans what I can do.”
Stansfield showed no signs of letting the occasion get to him, impressing with some intelligent running and almost claiming a fine assist when his low cross was poked wide by Anthony Knockaert.
“I’m happy with how I did after coming on,” he said. “I’ve still got a lot of improving to do with my strength and technical ability, but I thought I did what I needed to do after coming on, and I’m proud of that.
“It was good to get the win. I had to play my part in the game and make sure I didn’t make any mistakes that cost us. I was happy to come on and be able to stick to the gameplan and get the win.”
Stansfield learnt his trade at Exeter, where his father Adam holds legendary status and has a stand named after him at St James’ Park.
Adam tragically passed away at the age of 31 in 2010 after a battle with cancer. Jay dedicated his winning debut to his father, as well as paying tribute to the family members who helped him get to this point.
“My debut was very special, it will be a day that I’ll always remember,” he stated. “But there are so many people that I need to say thank you to for helping me get here, and making me the person I am that was able to get on the pitch.
“My family has been so supportive over the last six, seven years. Obviously it was nice to make my debut for my Dad, as well.
“I wish he was here to watch me do it but unfortunately he’s not, so that was for him. My family has helped me so much over the years, so I just want to say thank you to everyone.”