Irish Axe For Harte

Last updated : 03 September 2004 By Kevin Markey

Former Leeds left-back Harte, 27, moved to Spanish outfit Levante in the summer and scored with a stunning goal against Real Sociedad on his debut.

But he has been axed by Eire boss Brian Kerr and Harte said: "I am disappointed, very disappointed. I believe I have adapted well in Spain. It is going well for me and I am really enjoying it."

Brian Kerr’s team are in a tough World Cup qualifying group with France and a Switzerland side who twice defeated the Irish in the Euro 2004 qualifiers.

The Republic face the Swiss in Basel on Wednesday but first meet Cyprus at Lansdowne Road tomorrow.