Roy Keane has Ian Wright in trouble with cheeky joke after future son-in-law Taylor Harwood-Bellis scores against Ireland
A penny for Roy Keane's reaction when Taylor Harwood-Bellis headed in on his England debut against the Republic of Ireland.
Harwood-Bellis came on in the 62nd minute in place of Kyle Walker, but didn't wait long to make his mark.
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The Southampton defender rose highest to latch onto a tempting ball from Jude Bellingham at the far post and header past a desperate Caoimhin Kelleher.
Harwood-Bellis' goal was England's fifth and final goal in their emphatic result over a ten-man Ireland that secured the Three Lions' return to the A-League in the Nations League.
Keane, who earned 67 caps for Ireland during his brilliant playing career, was keenly interested in Harwood-Bellis' performance given the Saints star is his future son-in-law.
Harwood-Bellis became engaged to Keane's daughter Leah earlier this year.
So when the centre-back sent his header towards Kelleher, it left Keane a bit torn.
The Cork native also gave a funny answer when asked what it meant for Harwood-Bellis and her daughter's future together.
“It's bittersweet for me,” Keane said when asked what he thought of Harwood-Bellis' goal.
When it was pointed out that not everyone knew about the relationship between Harwood-Bellis and Keane, the Manchester United great said: “It's not done and dusted yet. Things can change quickly in Keane's house.”
Keane's comment left fellow pundit Ian Wright, and no doubt many viewers watching across the country, in stitches.
Although Keane added that he should be able to surpass Harwood-Bellis' goal, adding: “It's good for him to make his debut, he's a goal threat. He's a good kid, his family have done a great job.” A really nice job.”
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Harwood-Bellis and Keane will no doubt have a post-match briefing as the former spoke about what it's like to be the future son-in-law of a football icon ahead of the game against Greece.
“It's a good thing, yes, and I follow a lot of advice,” Harwood-Bellis said.
Harwood-Bellis was one of eight stars to make their senior debut in England under interim manager Lee Carsley during his six-match spell in charge.
Carsley relied on Morgan Rogers, Tino Livramento, Morgan Gibbs-White, Lewis Hall, Curtis Jones, Noni Madueke and Angel Gomes to perform for the Three Lions.
None of the new faces did anything to hurt their chances of future England call-ups as all eyes begin to focus on the 2026 World Cup.
The most notable thing about those who debuted with Carsley is that they are all 24 years old or younger.
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According to Carsley, the main logic behind so many stars playing for the first time was to give incoming England manager Thomas Tuchel more options to choose from when the March international window arrives.
“What we've tried to do is increase the number of players available to Thomas,” Carsley said.
“It feels like the fans are really connected to the team. They like the fact that it looks younger, more energetic and fresher.”
