In the world of football, the influence of a mentor can be the difference between a promising talent reaching their full potential or fading into obscurity. For Southampton’s rising star Taylor Harwood-Bellis, that guiding light comes from an unexpected source – his future father-in-law and Manchester United legend, Roy Keane.
Keane’s Invaluable Advice
The 22-year-old defender, who recently earned his first call-up to England’s senior squad, revealed that he regularly turns to Keane for guidance. “It’s something that is good and I take a lot of advice,” Harwood-Bellis said of his relationship with the seven-time Premier League winner.
Keane’s wealth of experience and no-nonsense approach to the game have undoubtedly shaped Harwood-Bellis’ development. The young Englishman’s tenacity and composure on the pitch echo the qualities that made Keane a midfield powerhouse during his playing days.
Carsley’s Unwavering Faith
While Keane’s influence has been crucial, Harwood-Bellis also credits England’s interim boss Lee Carsley for his rise to the senior squad. Carsley, who selected Harwood-Bellis as his captain for the under-21s, consistently reassured the defender that he would one day make the step up to the national team.
“He always said if you’re playing well at the top level and doing the best you can … and he stuck to his word and yeah, so I’m really happy,” Harwood-Bellis said of Carsley’s unwavering faith in his abilities.
– Taylor Harwood-Bellis on Lee Carsley’s influence
Looking Ahead to Tuchel’s Arrival
With Thomas Tuchel set to take the reins as England’s permanent manager on January 1st, Harwood-Bellis is already thinking about how to cement his place in the squad. The young defender knows that impressing the German tactician will be crucial to his long-term prospects with the national team.
“[I] think it would be a big motivation for all the lads, knowing there’s a new manager coming in and wanting to keep your spot,” Harwood-Bellis said. “It’s going to be a tough ask to stay in this role and to stay in the senior squad…especially the young lads will be pushing towards, kind of trying to keep my spot.”
A Bright Future Ahead
As Harwood-Bellis continues to make strides at both the club and international level, it’s clear that he has all the tools to become a fixture in England’s defense for years to come. With the guidance of Roy Keane and the support of his coaches, the sky seems to be the limit for this talented young player.
The upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and Republic of Ireland will provide Harwood-Bellis with the perfect opportunity to showcase his skills and prove that he belongs on the big stage. As England fans eagerly await the dawn of the Tuchel era, they can take comfort in knowing that the future of the national team’s defense is in capable hands with the likes of Taylor Harwood-Bellis leading the charge.
