North End forward Graham Burke is hoping to take confidence from his start to the season as he looks to earn a place in the Republic of Ireland squad for their clash with Wales.
Martin O'Neill's side take on Wales in Cardiff on Thursday night in the opening game of the UEFA Nations League, and Burke is looking to grab his chance at a first competitive start with both hands if it comes his way.
Speaking to the Irish media ahead of the game about joining up with the squad for the second time, the 24-year-old said: "I've settled in well. Obviously coming in the last time, I didn't know much about it, but all the lads have made me feel welcome.
"Coming in from the League of Ireland was a big step up for me. I just tried to do as well as I could. I obviously didn't really expect to play, but to play and score was brilliant for me, so I'm absolutely delighted to be back in now again.
"I’ll bring the confidence that I had from the start of the season here. And hopefully, it helps me to go on, try to play as well as I can and try to get into the team."
"I think I scored three in pre-season and then I’ve got two goals this season in four starts.
"If you were to tell me that at the start of the season, I’d have taken your hand off. “But it’s only a start, this is a tricky game."
"It's an opportunity for me. Obviously, with Shane [Long] not being here, there's a place up for grabs there. But you don't know who's going to start.
"It's up to me in training, leading up to the games, to try to do as well as I can and if I get the nod, hopefully I can take it."
Burke also had praise for fellow PNE forward and new Republic of Ireland teammate Callum Robinson, who could make his first senior appearance for Martin O'Neill's side in Cardiff.
"He can bring a lot to Ireland. He's a winger, he's tricky and he gets goals. I played underage with him at Villa, so I know a lot about him. He's a fantastic player."
Republic of Ireland take on Wales at 7.45pm on Thursday evening at Cardiff City Stadium, as both sides kick-off their UEFA Nations League campaign. We will have updates on social media and reaction here on PNE.Com if either North End player feature for the Boys in Green.