Dylan Levitt has revealed his friends and family had no idea he was bound for the World Cup with Wales after the Dundee United favourite was sworn to secrecy.
However, Levitt DID break the news to his parents — because his mum couldn’t handle the stress of waiting any longer.
The 21-year-old was confirmed as part of Rob Page’s 26-man group for Qatar 2022 at 7pm on Wednesday evening, just 45 minutes prior to United’s 4-0 win over Kilmarnock.
Fittingly, Levitt marked the honour with a virtuoso showing against Killie, capped with a sumptuous curling effort to complete the scoring.
And while the realisation of a boyhood dream happened at the start of the week for Levitt, many of his nearest and dearest were still on tenterhooks until the last minute.
“I found out a couple of days before (the Kilmarnock match) but was told to keep it quiet,” smiled Levitt.
“I wasn’t actually meant to tell anyone.
“It was a tough secret to keep and most of my friends and family only found out when the squad was announced. I was just waiting for them all to find out — then I got a load of nice messages.
“I did tell my mum straight away. As you do. I don’t think she could handle waiting any longer!
“Emotions were high. They (Levitt’s parents) were very proud, just like every family of every player will be. They have taken me here, there and everywhere during my years in football and it has paid off.”
He added: “This is the best feeling I’ve had in football. It’s every kid’s dream to go to a major tournament — and the World Cup is the biggest stage. It’s a proud day for me and my family.”
‘Massive platform’
Levitt’s place in the Wales squad has been built upon a wonderful 15 months at Tannadice.
Initially arriving on loan from Manchester United last summer, the silky Welshman became a firm fans’ favourite as the Tangerines secured fourth place in the Premiership and qualified for the Europa Conference League.
Levitt notched six goals in the process and, particularly in the final couple of months of the campaign, dazzled.
He made the move from the Red Devils permanent in June and, while he has struggled to match the soaring highs of last term, Levitt was superb in the Terrors’ recent encounters with Celtic and Killie.
🏴 A maiden @FIFAWorldCup appearance for @DylanLevitt@Cymru | #TogetherStronger pic.twitter.com/fjDgGwkgbz
— Dundee United FC (@dundeeunitedfc) November 9, 2022
“My time at Dundee United has been a massive platform for me,” lauded Levitt.
“They have given me what I needed: games and minutes.
“They have given me the chance to show what I can do and I’ll always be thankful to United for welcoming me with open arms.
“The dream was to get to the World Cup and it has come true.”
Dons challenge
Levitt will link up with the Welsh national team on Sunday ahead of a life-changing experience in Qatar, with the Dragons in Group B with USA, Iran and England.
But first, there is the tantalising prospect of a New Firm showdown against Aberdeen under the lights at Pittodrie.
And Levitt is adamant there is no chance his attention will wander.
“When you are involved in football, you’ve got to flick a switch and focus,” added Levitt.
“I had a few days before Kilmarnock where my emotions were high. But as soon as 7.45pm came on Wednesday, I had to focus and do what’s best for the team.
“I should be able to do it again.”
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