CONOR Washington admits his rapid rise from the Conference with Newport County AFC in 2012 to the brink of Euro 2016 with Northern Ireland still hasn’t quite sunk in.

Washington, who joined County from St Ives Town in October 2012 and moved on to Peterborough United in January 2014, made his international debut against Wales in Thursday’s 1-1 draw at the Cardiff City Stadium.

The striker, who sealed a big money move to Championship club Queens Park Rangers in January this year, hopes to be on the plane to France with Northern Ireland this summer.

But for now he says he’s just trying to enjoy the ride.

“It’s very surreal for me still,” said Washington, who played the first 45 minutes against Chris Coleman’s men.

“I’ve come a long way in such a short space of time but I’m taking every step as it comes and just enjoying the journey.

“I found out that I was going to start on Wednesday and it was a really exciting day for me.

“I phoned my girlfriend first, then my mum and the rest of my family.

“I was a little bit disappointed not to get a bit longer but I didn’t feel short of confidence out there and hopefully I’ll be able to have a good affect at this level.

“I felt I was growing into the game towards the end of the first half and I’m looking forward to Monday now.”

That match against Slovenia will be Washington’s first visit to Windsor Park and his first time in Northern Ireland.

“I’ve seen a few pictures of the redevelopment and heard a lot about the atmosphere so I’m really looking forward to it,” said the 23-year-old, who qualifies through his Belfast-born grandmother.

“I felt comfortable all week in training. There are some really good players and I’ve really enjoyed the sessions and the whole time I’ve been here.

“The lads have been absolutely brilliant and I feel really settled.”

While back in South Wales this week, Washington took the opportunity to catch up with former Exiles teammate Andrew Hughes and revealed that he still talks regularly to Justin Edinburgh – the man who signed him from the United Counties League in 2012.

“I think only Hughesy is left now from my time at Newport,” he said. “I met up with him on Wednesday for a coffee and it was good to see him.

“I’ve spoken to Justin quite a lot and he obviously takes a lot of credit for my development!

“I’ve still got a good relationship with him and I’m delighted that he’s flying at Gillingham.”