The American dream just keeps rolling on for Norfolk’s Dom Dwyer.

Dwyer, a former Norwich City academy player and a one-time striker with King’s Lynn, where he was brought up, has transformed his career since moving to the United States eight years ago.

And on Saturday, the 26-year-old made a stunning start to his career as a fully-fledged US international, taking just 19 minutes of his debut to score – a goal which set the US on their way to a 2-1 victory over Ghana in East Hartford, Connecticut.

“It meant a lot to me,” the Sporting Kansas City striker said.

“It’s been a long road to get here. I really wanted to show the fans and show the country that I’m very passionate about this country and that I’m very honoured to play for this team. Hopefully, it’s something we can build on.”

“I think he did well,” said US coach Bruce Arena after the game, a warm-up for the US’ Gold Cup tournament which begins on Saturday.

“He held the ball up as he got into the game. Obviously got a goal, a few other chances I think, and he works real hard. In international football, that’s a requirement, and he has that quality as well. I think for his first game I thought he did very well.

“He’s been around a little bit. He’s 26 years old, he’s had many games as a professional, and I know this was certainly a big opportunity for him. He became a US citizen in February and that was outstanding, so I know he was looking forward to it.

“You never know what happens in a game like this, and I thought the first 10 minutes or so he looked a little nervous out there, but he got a hold of the game and did well.”

Dwyer’s love affair with the States extends to his personal life: he married to US national team striker Sydney Leroux two years ago.

His goal on Saturday puts the couple in an exclusive club: they are the first married couple to both score US national team goals while were married – Leroux has scored 35 times for the women’s national team.

“I was always confident in my ability (but) I don’t know if I ever expected it this way,” Dwyer said. “It’s a great story and hopefully it can continue.”