The performances of Harry Arter in the first few weeks of the Premier League season have been particularly eye-catching, with the Ireland international putting in some combative and assured displays in the Bournemouth midfield.

Arter was unfortunate to pick up an injury on the eve of Euro 2016, ruling him out of the summer tournament, but his strong form in recent times will have him pushing his international colleagues for a starting place when Ireland play Georgia in their second World Cup qualifier next Thursday night.

Arter has been so good for his club that he was discussed by Sky's Jeff Stelling and Paul Merson in a Facebook chat earlier today.

They raved about Arter's ability, but unfortunately for the duo they were entirely unaware that the midfielder has won two caps for Ireland.

With Gareth Southgate set to release his first England squad after temporarily replacing Sam Allardyce, Stelling and Merson launched an embarrassing 'Arter for England' campaign.

"Gareth Southgate names his first England squad this week, and is there the remotest chance that Harry Arter gets called up? And if not, why not?," Stelling asked Merson.

The former Arsenal, Aston Villa and Portsmouth midfielder was equally oblivious as he signed off on Stelling's proposal.

"Exactly, why not. He gets on the ball, he is a good footballer. He has loads of energy. Something has got to change with this England squad. What is the point in just picking the same players? Give these players a chance."

Watch the discussion here, with Arter popping up after six minutes.

Online Editors