Watch Sky Sports duo claim Irish player should get England call-up

The claiming of Irish sportspeople has reached comedic new levels at Sky Sports HQ.

The claiming of Irish sportspeople has reached new levels at Sky Sports HQ, writes Stephen Barry.

The comedic duo of Jeff Stelling and Paul Merson took to Facebook this afternoon for a Premier League preview and their Bournemouth chat was all about one man.

“I want to talk about one player in particular here because Gareth Southgate names his first England squad this week,” began Stelling.

“Is there the remotest chance that Harry Arter could be in it, and if not, why not?”

Well that’s OK because Merse is here to put Jeff right… Merse?

The discussion begins at 6:10. Click here if the video is not working for you.

“Exactly, exactly – why not?” repeated Merson.

“He gets on the ball, he plays, he’s a good footballer, a very, very good footballer. He has loads of energy.

“Something has to change with this England squad. What’s the point in picking the same team? If you’re going to pick the same players, me and you might as well go and do it.”

We're not convinced the FA will be clamouring for their services based on this video interview.

And why not pick Arter? Well, there’s one very good reason…

Harry Arter pictured during his Ireland international debut, against England, in June 2015.

Hopefully that clears things up.