Cardiff City midfielder Harry Arter says Declan Rice needs to be left alone to make a decision about his international future.

The West Ham defender has received support from his Republic of Ireland team-mate Harry Arter as he decides whether to choose the Irish or England.

The Cardiff midfielder said: “If they are the rules, they are the rules.

“Declan hasn't made the rules. Its not for him to decide whether it's allowed or not. If they want to change it then there won't be decisions to make in the future.

“But the manager has given him all the time and respect he needs and I know the lads are well behind him.

“He's just a young boy. He has got his whole career ahead of him and its up to him what he wants to do."

On ex-Ireland players criticising Rice, Arter added: “Well, they are not in charge. When they become managers they can make that decision.

“The manager has clearly made his mind up and given him the time. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but if they want to be in charge and make the decision then they should become international managers."