Wellington Phoenix prospect Nathan Walker couldn’t wipe the smile off his face after making his surprise Isuzu UTE A-League debut at the weekend.

Walker was named in the starting line-up for Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Western United in the first round after New Zealand international Sam Sutton fell ill hours before kick-off.

The 18-year-old academy player trained with Giancarlo Italiano’s first team throughout pre-season and made his debut in the 2024 Australian Cup, but he is not among the 25 A-League players under contract.

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After the match, Walker was asked when he knew he was making the A-League bow.

“Almost hours before kick-off,” the teenager told Sky Sport New Zealand.

“They called me. Sutts was sick, so I didn’t have any preparation (smiles).”

Walker, who played the full 90 minutes, added: “There’s certainly improvement, but I mean, it’s just nice to get the experience, the opportunity. I was happy about it.”

He was surrounded by wise heads in Wellington’s squad, from captain Alex Rufer to talismanic Costa Barbarouses.

“Oh, it’s unrealistic when there are experienced boys. Costa (Barbarooza), Roofs (Alex Rufer), Bally (David Ball) and Scotty called me before the game to help calm my nerves. Their availability is massive,” he said.

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Walker got his first taste of senior football following the Australian Cup defeat to NPLM VIC giants South Melbourne in August.

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“Absolutely,” Walker said when asked if he always felt he had a chance under head coach Italiano. “There are several of us in the main team.

“He’s not shy about giving us opportunities. He fielded a young squad for the Australian Cup. There are always opportunities, you just have to work at them.”

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