Harry Arter says the the heightened security presence at Euro 2016 won’t cost the Republic of Ireland’s players a second thought.
France has been hit by deadly terrorist attacks twice in recent months, leading to a massive police and military operation across the country as the tournament gets ready for the big kick-off.
There have been warnings that the Euros could be targeted by terrorists, with travelling fans told to take extra safety precautions and teams heavily guarded 24 hours a day.
But Arter, who misses out on the competition due to a thigh injury sustained during Ireland’s recent pre-tournament training camp, says the players will be focused solely on their three Group E games.
“They should be focusing only on the game,” said the Bournemouth midfielder, speaking to RTÉ sport.
“I’m sure they won’t need to be told that these games are going to be some of the biggest games in their lives so I’m sure they won’t have any thoughts other than those next 90 minutes.”
Ireland begin their Euro campaign against Sweden in Paris on Monday, with clashes with Belgium on Saturday and Italy the following Wednesday, 22 June to follow.
Arter doesn’t believe that the Sweden game will be make-or-break for Ireland and he feels that the Boys in Green can make an impression in France.
“Everyone is looking at the big countries and thinking that they’re going to go through to the quarters, the semis,” he said.
“But I think this time around, in this tournament, that there’s no clear favourite. Everyone is looking at France, but other than them I don’t see anyone that would scare you.
“Anything is possible, I honestly do believe that - you only have to look at Greece a few years back and Leicester this season.”
Speaking about the group opener with Sweden, he said: “I don’t think it’s make-or-break because there are two games after and I think anything can happen in tournament football.
“It’s important to get a positive result, be that a draw or a win, and a positive performance to go into the Belgium game with confidence, points on the board and a good performance. In tournament football that counts for a lot.”
Online lottery provider Lottoland has teamed up with Republic of Ireland midfielder, Harry Arter, to give the public the chance to win big in Europe this summer – regardless of how The Green Army fair on the pitch. For more information on Lottoland visit http://www.lottoland.ie/
