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NO HARR-D FEELINGS

Harry Arter ready to return to Ireland squad after sorting rift with assistant manager Roy Keane

Cardiff midfielder clashed with Martin O'Neill's No2 last month and quit the training camp

HARRY ARTER says he is looking forward to being back in the Ireland side again after making peace with Roy Keane.

The Bournemouth midfielder — who is on loan at Cardiff — pulled out of Martin O’Neill’s Republic squad last month following an alleged training-ground bust-up with No 2 Keane in May.

 Harry Arter is ready to return to the Ireland squad for the upcoming Nations League after making up with Roy Keane
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Harry Arter is ready to return to the Ireland squad for the upcoming Nations League after making up with Roy KeaneCredit: Sportsfile - Subscription
 Arter fell out with assistant manager Keane in May and quit last month's training camp
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Arter fell out with assistant manager Keane in May and quit last month's training campCredit: Reuters

But Arter, 28, has been recalled for the Nations League clashes with Denmark on Saturday and Wales on Tuesday.

He said: “The conversation between Roy and I was private. It’s been sorted out now and I’m looking forward to going away.

“My interest all the time is the best interests of the team.

“Last time I felt it was in the best interests of the team for me to come away from it for a while.

“Thankfully it’s sorted now and I feel very good physically and mentally and hopefully I can put in good performances for Ireland.”

Missing from the squad is West Ham’s Declan Rice, 19, who is considering switching his allegiance to England after three friendly appearances for the Irish.

Fellow Londoner Arter said: “Declan is a young lad with a big decision to make. The manager has given him that space to make a decision.

“For players born in England with dual nationality it’s not an easy decision at times. He is someone I know is really passionate about playing for Ireland. He has loved his time playing for them.

 The Cardiff midfielder is hoping to feature in the fixtures against Denmark and Wales
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The Cardiff midfielder is hoping to feature in the fixtures against Denmark and WalesCredit: PA:Press Association
 Arter believes everyone within the Ireland camp is behind Declan Rice who is considering his international allegiance
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Arter believes everyone within the Ireland camp is behind Declan Rice who is considering his international allegianceCredit: Sportsfile - Subscription

“But he’s only 19 years of age and he has a big decision to make. I’m sure he will come to a decision soon.”

Asked if Rice should be allowed to switch countries, Arter added: “If they are the rules, they are the rules. Declan hasn’t made the rules.

"It’s not for him to decide whether it’s allowed or not.

“If they want to change them then there won't be decisions to make in the future. But the manager has given him all the time and respect he needs and I know the lads are well behind him.

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“He’s just a young boy. He has got his whole career ahead of him.”

Many Irish fans feel O’Neill should dump Rice.

But Arter said: “They are not in charge. When they become managers they can make that decision.

“The manager has clearly made his mind up and given him the time.

“Everyone is entitled to their opinion but if they want to be in charge and make the decision then they should become international managers.”

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