Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington has praised Shane Duffy's "first class" attitude after handing him his first senior international call-up.

The 17-year-old has made only a handful of appearances for Everton's reserve team but has shone in the Under-18s, catching the eye of former Norwich boss Worthington.

Having made a further impression for Northern Ireland's Under-17, Under-19, Under-20, Under-21 and 'B' team set-ups this term, he was selected in the squad for Saturday's friendly against Italy in Pisa.

And while Duffy was an unused substitute in a 3-0 defeat, Worthington had no regrets about taking the teenager along.

"I would have liked to have given him a little bit," said Worthington, who was restricted to making just six substitutions. "It's unfortunate because he was first class.

"I had a word with him and, even though he did not play, he has had a great season."