Former Ireland footballer Roy Keane humorously remarked that Taylor Harwood-Bellis’s debut goal for England could put his upcoming wedding to Keane’s daughter, Leah, in jeopardy.
The 22-year-old Southampton defender, who is engaged to marry Keane’s daughter, made his mark on Sunday by scoring England’s fifth goal in a 5-0 Nations League victory against Ireland at Wembley.
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Coming on as a substitute, Harwood-Bellis headed in a cross from Jude Bellingham just 17 minutes into his international debut, while Keane watched from the stands as a pundit.
In his signature dry humor, the ex-Manchester United midfielder hinted that the engagement might be at risk following the goal against Keane’s home country. “It’s bittersweet for me this. It is not done and dusted yet,” Keane quipped. “Things can change very quickly in the Keane household, let me tell you.”
Despite his initial jest, Keane, who earned 67 caps for Ireland, eventually praised Harwood-Bellis, acknowledging his growth as both a Premier League and international player. “Over the last few months, he has got a goal threat, even playing for Southampton,” Keane noted. “It’s good for him, it’s good for him to make his debut. His family have done a great job; he is a really nice kid.”
The playful banter highlighted Keane’s softer side as he acknowledged the young defender’s accomplishment, even in a match that held personal conflict for the former Ireland star.
