Football | Harry Arter returns to Ireland squad

Harry Arter has returned to the Republic of Ireland squad.

However, Declan Rice has once again been omitted from the provisional  squad for the upcoming Nations League games against Wales and Denmark.Robbie Brady, Seamus Coleman, Jon Walters, and Stephen Ward all miss out through injury.

Former Dundalk midfielder Richie Towell has also earned a call up, and several key players make their return from injury.

James McClean, Shane Long, Sean Maguire, Greg Cunningham, Alan Browne, Scott Hogan,  Derrick Williams, and Arter all return, while u21 star Ronan Curtis has also been included.

Arter's return is a welcome addition, and Martin O'Neill says the midfielder's clash with Roy Keane has been sorted out.

"Harry and Roy had a chat and sorted it all out," the Irish manager confirmed.

"I'm delighted he's back, we don't have many people playing regularly in the Premier League and it's great to have him back.

"Harry wants to play for us and that's that."

Rice's absence will again raise questions, and Sky Sports are reporting that today that the 19-year-old has chosen to represent England.

However, O'Neill did not rule out a return to the Irish fold for Rice in today's press conference.

"I've spoken to Declan and the family," O'Neill revealed.

"They want a little bit more time to make his mind up. "He hasn't made a decision yet. I am hopeful."

Republic of Ireland Provisional Squad Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough), Colin Doyle (Hearts), Sean McDermott (Kristiansund BK) Defenders: Cyrus Christie (Fulham), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Richard Keogh (Derby County), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), Kevin Long (Burnley), John Egan, Enda Stevens (Sheffield United), Darragh Lenihan, Derrick Williams (Blackburn Rovers), Greg Cunningham (Cardiff City) Midfielders: Alan Judge (Brentford), Jeff Hendrick (Burnley), Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), Alan Browne (Preston North End), Shaun Williams (Millwall), David Meyler (Reading), Harry Arter (Cardiff City*), Daryl Horgan (Hibernian), Callum O'Dowda (Bristol City), James McClean (Stoke City), Richie Towell (Rotherham United*) Forwards: Shane Long (Southampton), Graham Burke, Callum Robinson, Sean Maguire (Preston North End), Aiden O'Brien (Millwall), Scott Hogan (Aston Villa), Ronan Curtis (Portsmouth) *Indicates player is on loan