Former Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane found himself in an unusual position at Wembley on Sunday night, watching his future son-in-law Taylor Harwood-Bellis score against Ireland during England’s victory.
The 22-year-old defender marked his senior England debut with a goal, prompting a mixed reaction from Keane who was on punditry duty for ITV Sport.
“Bittersweet for me, this,” admitted Keane as he watched replays of the goal that completed England’s commanding win over his native Ireland.
The moment sparked an entertaining exchange between Keane and his fellow pundits as he reflected on his unique family connection to the scorer.
Harwood-Bellis’s goal came in the second half of what turned into a dominant England performance at Wembley.
The match had been level at the break before Ireland’s fortunes took a turn for the worse when Liam Scales was sent off for a foul in the penalty area.
Roy Keane fired a jokey warning to his future son-in-law Taylor Harwood-Bellis
ITV
England took full advantage of their numerical superiority, with Anthony Gordon among the scorers as the hosts built a commanding lead.
The Southampton defender’s header proved to be the final goal of the evening, marking a memorable first senior international appearance for the 22-year-old.
When ITV host Mark Pougatch revealed the family connection to viewers, Keane delivered a characteristically witty response that had his fellow pundits in stitches.
“It’s not done and dusted yet! Things can change very quickly in the Keane household, let me tell you!” quipped the former Manchester United captain.
The comment drew hearty laughter from both Pougatch and fellow pundit Ian Wright, showcasing Keane’s trademark dry humour despite watching his future son-in-law score against his beloved Ireland.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis scored his first England goal after making his debut
Reuters
Despite his initial playful warning, Keane went on to offer genuine praise for the young defender’s achievement.
“It’s good for him to make his debut and he’s a bit of a goal threat,” the ITV pundit remarked.
England thrashed Republic of Ireland 5-0
Reuters
Keane also spoke warmly about Harwood-Bellis’s character and upbringing, adding: “He’s a nice kid and his family have done a really great job.”
The comments demonstrated the softer side of the typically forthright pundit, suggesting that despite his earlier jest about things changing quickly, he holds his future son-in-law in high regard.
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