Taylor Harwood-Bellis Attributes Development to Roy Keane’s Guidance

Southampton defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis has stated that his recent progress has been influenced by his future father-in-law, Roy Keane. Harwood-Bellis, a product of the Manchester City academy, recently received his inaugural senior England call-up and became engaged to Leah, Roy Keane’s daughter. The 22-year-old Harwood-Bellis commented, “It’s something that is good, yes, and I take a lot of advice.” The ex-England Under-21 captain was selected by interim manager Lee Carsley for the upcoming Nations League fixtures: an away match in Greece on Thursday and a home game against the Republic of Ireland on Sunday. When questioned about whether he had discussed Sunday’s match with the former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain, Harwood-Bellis responded, “No, everything is focused on Greece at the minute.” He added, “It’s a big game after the result at home. Obviously, we want to go over there and get a result.” Harwood-Bellis further stated, “It will be a good atmosphere and a full house. We are looking forward to it and take the challenge on.” Roy Keane is not the sole sporting link in Harwood-Bellis’ personal life. His sister, Becky, played for Great Britain’s basketball team at the youth level, and his uncle, Steve, holds the position of president at his hometown club, Stockport County. His father, Martin, previously served as the club’s mascot, ‘Vernon Bear’. “He did it for a good time, to be fair,” Harwood-Bellis remarked with a laugh. “It wasn’t just a one-time thing. He was the bear. It was sad to see him stop doing that, to be fair.” Harwood-Bellis is a potential bench starter in Athens, and fellow former under-21 international Lewis Hall is also aiming to secure his inaugural senior cap. The 20-year-old left-back, Lewis Hall, transferred to Newcastle from Chelsea at the beginning of last summer. He made his first-team debut for Chelsea at 17, under Thomas Tuchel, who is set to become the new permanent England manager in January.