Ever since he was a toddler, Zach Tuohy always had eyes for football.

His father Noel has revealed that all Zach ever wanted as a child was a football and “once he had that he didn’t care for the rest of the toys”.

Noel was speaking to the Seven Network on a recent trip over from Ireland.

It was the first time Zach’s parents had met their grandson, Flynn James, who was born in January.

The family reunion saw Zach reflect fondly on his own childhood.

“Ever since I was little I was never left wanting for anything,” Zach said.

“I wouldn’t say we were particularly well off, but I was always given everything I would possibly need to succeed.”

And succeed he has.

Since making his debut in Round 11, 2011 against Port Adelaide, the Irishman now has 71 AFL games under his belt.

Tuohy was one of just five Carlton players to run out for every game last season, and he’s on track to do the same again this year.

It’s more than he ever dreamed of achieving when he left Ireland as a 17-year-old to train with Carlton – and far more than his proud mum Marie ever envisioned,

“My mother’s told me a few times, when I first left, there was only one real thing she wanted to see and that was me run through a banner,” Tuohy said.

“Even if it was just one time, she wanted to see me  …  make it if you like.”

While he certainly hasn’t forgotten his Irish roots, Zach has embraced life in Australia and the lifestyle he says he could never have enjoyed in Ireland.

The boy from Portlaoise says he’s grateful for the opportunities he has been afforded and he plans to make the most of them.

“A lot of people say it, but I just wouldn’t be where I was if I didn’t have the people I have, the family I have, and particularly the parents I have,” Tuohy said.

“I’ve got a family, I’ve got my job – which I adore – and I simply owe that to this country. At the risk of sounding a bit cheesy – I just do.”