Bournemouth star Harry Arter so proud to answer Ireland call

Harry Arter has declared he’s only interested in representing the Republic of Ireland for the right reasons after his first call-up yesterday.

The Bournemouth midfielder was the surprise name on Martin O’Neill’s 35-man provisional squad for the Euro 2016 qualifier with Poland on March 29, but he is determined to make his mark.

The London-born player qualifies through his grandmother, from Sligo, and first pulled on the green jersey at Under 16 level. So it’s long been his dream to make his senior bow.

Arter knows that he has not made the final cut yet with O’Neill set to trim his squad down to 22 players, but he’s ready to fight for a place and show just what a senior international call-up means to him.

“I can promise the Irish fans that I’m passionate about representing the country and will give my all, if I do get the opportunity to play,” said Arter yesterday.

“If I was to play for Ireland, it would be, without a doubt, the proudest moment of my career and a proud moment for my family. I’ve played at underage level and have always loved playing for Ireland.

“I do understand that some people may have their doubts over an English-born player getting called up, but I can only give 100% and prove that I have a passion to play for Ireland.”

The call-up came as a shock to Arter, who was in Bournemouth’s gym on his day off yesterday when team-mate Steve Cook broke the news, and he has since been busy replying to calls and texts from family.

One of those who was first to congratulate him was brother-in-law and former England international, Scott Parker.

With six goals and three assists in 38 games this season, Arter, 25, has been a key player in Bournemouth’s elevation to the top of the Championship.

“I’m lucky to have been part of a really good team for the last couple of years and to have a manager in Eddie Howe who trusts me. I’ve been working hard and feel that I’m playing my best football of my career,” said Arter.

“It wasn’t that long ago that I was playing non-league football. But I’ve always been ambitious and set a target to get into the Championship, to break into the Ireland squad, and to play in the Premier League.

“Hopefully we can achieve promotion this season to get into the Premier League, but I’m so delighted to have made the provisional squad for Ireland. I’m going to work as hard as I can to impress the manager.”

As a youngster, Arter spent his summers in Sligo and cheered for Roy Keane for Ireland and Manchester United. Now, he gets the chance to impress his idol and win over O’Neill.