Taylor Harwood-Bellis on Stockport mascot dad and future father-in-law Roy Keane

Taylor Harwood-Bellis wants to keep making his sport-loving family proud, revealing his dad used to be Stockport’s mascot ‘Vernon Bear’ and that he gets advice from less cuddly future father-in-law Roy Keane.

Lee Carsley named the 22-year-old in a senior England squad for the first time having captained his under-21 side to European Championship glory in 2023.

Harwood-Bellis has impressed in an otherwise disappointing start to the season for promoted Southampton, while injuries to Harry Maguire and John Stones have helped pave the way for his selection.

Nations League clashes against Greece and the Republic of Ireland await in the final camp under Carsley, whose call ahead last Thursday’s squad selection will live long in the memory.