Footballer James McClean returned to his Derry roots as his home city celebrated his 100th cap for the Republic of Ireland.
A party was held in his honour on Saturday on the street where he grew up after he secured the century cap against Gibraltar last week.
Joined by his wife Erin and members of his family as the celebrations got underway in Creggan Heights, McClean said: “It’s been some week".
"You know, I'm looking forward to the moment where it actually sinks in because I think then that's when it'll hit home but for now I'm enjoying every second of it and long may it continue," he said.
McClean (34), who made his senior international debut in March 2012, is only the seventh player to reach a century of caps for the Republic.
A special presentation was made to him by President Michael D Higgins ahead of the game at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin last Monday.
Earlier McClean, who currently plays for Wigan Athletic, said he was proud of the community in which he grew up for playing a part in helping him through his football journey.
"If it wasn't for everything I learned growing up in Creggan then I wouldn't be where I am today," he told BBC Radio Foyle.
"Creggan is my home and I'm proud of that. They are also proud of me.
"They feel part of my career and that means so much to me. I'm one of them and that's a great grounded way to be.
"I thank Creggan for everything."
And on Friday he was honoured at the Ryan McBride Brandywell stadium before Derry City's home game against Cork City.
McClean made his debut with Derry City before moving to Sunderland in 2011.
The winger has always maintained a keen support for his home city, often making charitable donations.
Over the years, he has supported several organisations, including those which help homeless people and men with alcohol issues as well as donating money for a bike to help a child with Spina Bifida.
He also has contributed funds for specialist treatment in America for a child suffering from cancer and provided supplies for a Derry GP during the coronavirus pandemic.
Meanwhile, Millwall Football Club was charged on Friday by the Football Association in relation to three alleged instances of religiously offensive abuse aimed at McClean during a game against Wigan Athletic in April.
McClean said: "I'm not going to hold my breath and say it'll change things going forward.
"I'm not naive enough to think that it will. But look, it's a start."
