Harry Arter played through grief at death of baby

Republic of Ireland international Harry Arter played a key role in Bournemouth’s win over Manchester United, despite his partner losing their child at birth during last week.

“I just felt coming in and trying to take my mind off things would make it a bit easier. My family would want me to play,” Arter told the Bournemouth website. “While people maybe grieve in their own way, I found it easier to come in and play and try and do everyone proud.”

“I said before the game that one reason I wanted to play was to dedicate the game to everyone associated with my family — my family that are here and not here.”

Arter praised team-mates and staff at Bournemouth.

“The support of everyone at the club is why I felt like I wanted to play as well,” he said.

“They have been unbelievable for me this week and made things a tad easier. I am sure my partner at home will be really proud too. It’s a game that we can look back on with a lot of pride.”

Arter was close to tears after being booked after 84 minutes, and was substituted minutes later before being embraced by manager Eddie Howe at full-time. “It’s been a really tough week for Harry and his family, naturally,” said Howe. “Life has a way of throwing these things at people and families, and it’s been a hugely emotional week for him.

“I think he’s handled himself with real dignity throughout the process, and to play the way he did today, with the emotions running through his body, I can’t credit him enough for that.

“He showed real strength to keep his emotions in check, and I’ve got to say his team-mates rallied around him really well. There were some emotional scenes in the dressing room afterwards.

“I’m really proud of him, but the pain for them won’t go away, so we’ll have to look after Harry, and our thoughts are with him and his family.”