AN emotional Aidan Hawtin was overjoyed to make his professional debut for Oxford United, coming off the bench late on against Tranmere Rovers.

The 19-year-old, from Bicester, has fought his way back from two career-threatening knee injuries while in the youth team.

As a result, his late appearance in the 3-0 win at Prenton Park meant a huge amount, especially once he caught a glimpse of his mother in the away end.

“It’s quite surreal, it’s still setting in I’ve made my League Two debut, at 19 as well,” he said.

“When I was clapping the fans I could see my mum (Pauline) in the crowd, it was a special moment.

“I don’t know if she was (in tears), I hope not or it might have set me off.

“We travelled on Friday so I had a slight inkling I was going to be on the bench.

“I never thought I was going to be making my debut until the gaffer gave me the nod."

“I can’t wait to get home and see my family.

“No doubt my phone will be ringing all night.”

It very nearly got even better for the teenager, who had a chance to score when Owain Fon Williams parried a shot from James Roberts in stoppage time.

Hawtin said: “I dragged the volley wide a little bit. I think I saw my name in lights."

“But there’s two more games left and hopefully I’ll get a bit of playing time.”