Curiosity got the better of Jack Marriott on Thursday as he answered an unexpected phone call on the golf course.

Just over 48 hours later, the 18-year-old had played the biggest game of his life.

The Ipswich Town striker made his debut as a substitute in the Blues’ 2-0 defeat at Burnley on Saturday, and made a favourable impression during a 30-minute cameo.

The youngster, who has plundered 26 goals for the club’s under-18 and under-21 teams this season, was given his big chance by assistant manager Terry Connor on Thursday as he relaxed with friends.

“I was at the driving range, on the putting green, when I received a phone call from an unknown number,” revealed Marriott, who forced Burnley goalkeeper Lee Grant into two late saves at Turf Moor.

“I don’t usually answer unknown numbers but it felt weird and when I answered it was TC (Terry Connor) and he asked me if I could come in my travelling gear on Friday to travel to Burnley.

“Of course I had no hesitation and I had to tell my friends, who I was playing a little competition with, I didn’t want to play any more. I just wanted to go home and ring my parents. My head was spinning.”

Marriott not only made a favourable impact on the pitch but also hit the right note off the pitch, stealing the show at the team’s pre-match dinner on Friday evening.

Marriott, who roomed with former academy player Tommy Smith, was forced to belt out a rendition of Robbie Williams’ ‘Angels’ as part of a team-bonding exercise.

“I had my initiation at dinner and had to sing in front of the entire first team which was good banter and good fun,” said the Kettering-born striker.

“Angels is my personal favourite from back in the day when I was a young lad and it was all part of the lads making me feel really welcome.

“I had a good room mate in Tommy Smith. He has come through the academy himself and he was happy to answer any questions that I had.”

n From mortgage advisor to Turf Moor – Inside your Green’Un supplement.