Harry Arter appeared on Football Focus on Saturday morning ahead of Bournemouth’s trip to Middlesbrough.
All credit to battles for mid-table respectability but we were keeping an ear cocked for some mention of his Republic of Ireland career, namely the furore that flared earlier this month over the possibility of him declaring for England.
Despite being interviewed by Ireland centurion Kevin Kilbane, the issue did not come up (or at least did not survive the final cut), instead the talented midfielder reflected on the still birth of his daughter Renee last year.
The 26-year-old spoke about playing against Manchester United just days after the tragedy.
“The support of everyone that night is something that will live with me forever,” said Arter of a night when his courageous performance in the Cherries’ win over United was viewed as remarkable by all in attendance.
At the end of the interview, presenter Dan Walker broke the wonderful news that Arter’s girlfriend Rachel is 22 weeks pregnant. Understandably viewers were delighted with the news.
https://twitter.com/samdavisuk/status/792326191298519042
https://twitter.com/FinallyFraser/status/792323826080243712
Congratulations @HarryArter2 to you and Rachel. I hope everything goes well x
— Stuart Tarrant (@StuartTarrant) October 29, 2016
https://twitter.com/rish_vrma/status/792323167624826880
What great news about Rachel and @HarryArter2. 🙏🏻
— Margaret Page (@MargaretPage1) October 29, 2016
cracking interview with @HarryArter2 on football focus. and more importantly, congratulations! #afcb
— Roberto Francisco (@Robmatlee) October 29, 2016
Great interview and so happy to hear ur great news @HarryArter2 @arteracademy #FootballFocus #afcbournemouth
— Nathan Wray (@nr_wray) October 29, 2016
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