Taylor Harwood-Bellis: Roy Keane offers advice to future son-in-law
Southampton defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis says his future father-in-law Roy Keane played a role in his recent development.
The Manchester City youth player received his first call-up to the England national team and recently became engaged to Keane’s daughter Leah.
“Yeah, it’s a good thing, I’m taking a lot of advice,” Harwood-Bellis, 22, said.
The former England Under-21 captain has been named by interim head coach Lee Carsley for Thursday’s Nations League clash in Greece and Sunday’s home game against the Republic of Ireland.
However, when asked if he had spoken to the former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain about Sunday’s game, he said: “No, everything is focused on Greece at the moment.
“It’s an important game after the result at home. Obviously we want to go there and get the result.
“It’s going to be a good atmosphere and a full house. We’re looking forward to it and taking on the challenge.”
Keane isn’t the only sporting connection in Harwood-Bellis’ life.
His sister Becky represents the British youth basketball team, his uncle Steve is chairman of his hometown Stockport County club, and his father Martin was the club’s mascot “Vernon Bear”.
“To be fair, he did a great job,” he said with a laugh. “This wasn’t just a one-time thing. He was that bear. To be fair, it’s sad to see him stop doing it.”
Harwood-Bellis is likely to start as a substitute in Athens, while former Under-21 international Lewis Hall is also hoping to win his first senior international appearance.
The 20-year-old left-back joined Newcastle from Chelsea at the beginning of last summer and made his first-team debut at the age of 17 with the help of Thomas Tuchel, who will become the new England manager in January. coach. .
