Rio Adebisi’s hard work out on the training ground and for the club’s Development Squad paid off in spades last night after he was rewarded with his senior debut against Premier League side Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup 2nd Round.
Adebisi, 18, wasn’t fazed as he came up against the likes of Jota and the Villa skipper, Jack Grealish when he came on as a second half substitute.
Although his debut ended in a 6-1 defeat to the Premier League side, it is a night he will always cherish. The left-back performed admirably in an all-round team performance that wasn’t truly reflected in the scoreline.
After making his first start for the club, Rio told iFollow the Alex: "I loved it, absolutely loved it. I'm buzzing.
"It's been a rush. I thought I was going to come on (at Newport) on Saturday, it was very close.
"Then I got the call for this game. I was excited and nervous, I was buzzing. All the nerves came in but I had to keep them steady so I could play well.
"I thought I did well against a great standard, but I played well, performed on the night.
"The atmosphere was amazing, I've never played in front of this attendance before so it was very loud. You couldn't really speak to other players on the pitch because it was so loud but I loved it.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity and buzzing that I've finally been able to make my debut.
He added: "It makes me want more, I want more from myself so I can get to the top."