O’neill says Arter and Keane have made up

Republic of Ireland boss Martin O’neill is confident Harry Arter and assistant boss Roy Keane can both move on after the midfielder was recalled for the Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales.

Arter, on loan at Cardiff from Bournemouth, opted to miss the September fixtures against Wales and Poland in the wake of the fallout from a row with Keane in the summer.

O’neill confirmed there had been positive dialogue as they prepare for the double header at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

“Roy and Harry had conversations,” O’neill said. “Harry is happy to be in the squad and wants to put it behind him, and I think Roy does as well.”

O’neill added of Arter: “There is a few people that he would like to prove wrong, and prove to himself for a start. The game is about trying to prove people wrong. The conversation they had was excellent.”

Richie Towell, the former Hibs midfielder on loan at Rotherham from Brighton, has earned a first call-up, but West Ham youngster Declan Rice is not included in the 32-man provisional squad.

“We have a number of players who do not play regularly

0 Declan Rice: Options.

in their sides. Richie at least is playing a few games now with Rotherham and will have more confidence,” O’neill said.

Rice, who can operate either as a defender or in midfield, continues to consider his international options.

O’neill still hopes the 19-yearold, who has three friendly caps so far, will opt to remain with Ireland. “I’ve spoken to Declan and the family. They want a little bit more time to make his mind up,” he said. “He hasn’t made a decision yet. I am hopeful.”

Reports later emerged Rice was set to switch allegiance to England and O’neill said after his press conference: “Until I get the story I can’t really comment on it. All I can reiterate is what I’ve said in the room for the last hour. What I said to you was exactly how I felt about it. Nothing surprises me in this life, but I’d be a bit surprised at that particular story.”