HARRY Arter admitted he had been buoyed by the support of Roy Keane given the Republic of Ireland assistant's high standing in the game.

Arter was forced out of contention for Euro 2016 by a thigh injury but Keane then stated the Cherries midfielder had a bright future at international level.

The 26-year-old Arter revealed how he had been flattered by the comments of the former Manchester United star, who won the Premier League seven times during a decorated playing spell at Old Trafford.

Arter told the Daily Echo: "Roy Keane was someone I grew up admiring as a footballer and I took the things he said as a massive compliment.

"I took a lot of confidence from that. Hopefully, I can come back to pre-season and do well and be in with a shout for the World Cup qualifiers.

"In terms of professionalism, no one can say a bad word about Roy Keane. He has achieved everything when it comes to club football.

"He is probably one of the best midfielders I can remember. When I work alongside him, I take on board everything he says and listen with eager ears."

The Republic of Ireland drew 1-1 with Sweden in their opening game of Euro 2016.