Former Manchester City academy graduate Taylor Harwood-Bellis received his first call-up to the England senior squad last week and could make his debut for the Three Lions during this international break.
If the 22-year-old does earn his first cap, one of the first to congratulate him might surprise you—former Manchester United captain Roy Keane. Harwood-Bellis recently got engaged to Keane’s daughter, Leah, and he shared with reporters that he’s leaned on the United legend for advice. “It’s been really helpful, yes, and I take a lot of his advice.”
When asked if he’d talked with Keane about the potential match against the Republic of Ireland—Keane’s home country—this Sunday, Harwood-Bellis clarified, “No, everything is focused on Greece at the moment. It’s a big game after the result at home. We want to go over there and get a good result in what should be a great atmosphere. We’re ready for the challenge.”
Harwood-Bellis is one of City’s recent academy success stories, having made eight appearances before his £20 million transfer to Southampton last summer. After loan spells with Anderlecht, Blackburn, Stoke, and Burnley, he’s now settled at Southampton, where his Premier League performances caught the eye of interim England manager Lee Carsley, earning him a spot in the senior squad.
Following his role as captain of the England U21s during their European Championship victory in the summer of 2023, Harwood-Bellis is hopeful his leadership skills will translate to the senior level. “I’ve been captain through the England age groups and also with City’s youth teams,” he said. “It’s something I really enjoy—I like being seen as a leader and supporting my teammates.”
He added, “Now, with the senior England team and at Southampton, I’m surrounded by more experienced players. I’m just trying to learn as much as I can from everyone around me and keep improving.”
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