GAVIN Whyte made his first start for the Northern Ireland senior side tonight.

The Oxford United winger was in Michael O'Neill's line-up to face Republic of Ireland in Dublin.

Involvement from the off in the friendly continues the 22-year-old's rapid progression this season, following his summer move from Crusaders.

Whyte scored with his first touch in international football as a substitute against Israle in September, before coming on again against Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.

And the winger had a great chance to bag his second goal for his country in the 14th minute, but when clean through, Republic goalkeeper Darren Randolph kept out his goalbound shot with his leg.

Whyte came off after 61 minutes.