The Bournemouth star is one of the most in-form players in the Premier League.
Harry Arter has been in blistering form for Bournemouth this season and the Irish international picked up another man of the match performance this afternoon during the 0-0 draw with Spurs.
As you will know, Arter was born in London but has played for Ireland from under-17 to senior level – in fact, the talented midfielder made his international debut under Martin O’Neill against England in the 0-0 draw at the Aviva.
Despite his impressive form at club level, Arter is still waiting on his first competitive cap in the green jersey. Injuries have frequently hampered his chances, meaning that it’s still possible for him to switch his international allegiances and play for England.
Speaking with Kevin Kilbane on Newstalk’s Off The Ball, Arter reaffirmed his commitment to Ireland and was clearly moved when speaking about the rumours that he would perform an international U-turn.
Regarding the rumours that he might switch to England, Arter said: “It was a strange one really, I didn’t feel I wanted to answer it or say anything bad, because it didn’t come from me. For someone to make up a rumour like that, I felt , didn’t deserve an answer and it was a tad bit disappointing”.
“I don’t want to say too much about it, I’d rather forget it. It was a silly, silly situation that wasn’t something that I wanted to get involved in. It wasn’t a conversation that I created, so it wasn’t anything that I wanted to engage in”, he said.
Ireland take on Austria next month and the Bournemouth star is chomping at the bit to be involved in that crucial World Cup qualifier. “The times I have been there (Ireland’s squad), I’ve been fully prepared to play. Unfortunately it hasn’t happened for me yet but if I’m there (Austria) and fit, hopefully I’ll get a chance”, he says.
Have a listen to the interview in full.
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