Manchester United icon Roy Keane has embraced a significant new role behind the scenes, stepping up as a mentor and advisor to his future son-in-law, Southampton star Taylor Harwood-Bellis. The Sky Sports pundit, renowned for his intense and forthright television persona, is offering footballing guidance to the young defender, whose engagement to Keane's daughter, Leah, was announced in June 2024.
A Family Affair On and Off the Pitch
The couple, who welcomed their baby daughter, Iris, in December 2025, have integrated football into family life, with Keane taking a keen interest in Harwood-Bellis's career. Despite his legendary status as a seven-time Premier League champion and Champions League winner with Manchester United, Keane has shown a surprisingly tender side, publicly endorsing the Saints centre-back's character and ability.
Harwood-Bellis Seeks Advice from a Legend
Ahead of Sunday's high-stakes South Coast Derby between Southampton and Portsmouth at Fratton Park, Harwood-Bellis revealed he occasionally seeks Keane's counsel for big games. The 23-year-old defender, expected to start in the noon kick-off, chuckled when asked on Sky Sports if football is discussed with his future father-in-law.
"There's bits of football on the table," Harwood-Bellis admitted. "There's no better person to ask in terms of big moments with the experiences he's gone through so yeah. But he's never experienced the Southampton vs Portsmouth Derby so I'll let him know how that one goes."
Keane's Bittersweet Pride
Keane's mentorship was notably tested in November 2024 when he provided punditry for ITV during Harwood-Bellis's England debut against Keane's native Ireland. The defender marked his senior international bow by scoring in England's 5-0 victory at Wembley, prompting a mixed reaction from the United legend.
As the goal was replayed, Keane confessed, "It's bittersweet for me, this." When host Mark Pougatch noted Harwood-Bellis would soon join the family, Keane humorously cautioned, "It's not done and dusted yet. Things can change very quickly in the Keane household, let me tell you!" – a remark that drew laughter from fellow pundit Ian Wright.
Public Approval and On-Field Form
Showcasing his softer side, Keane has spoken glowingly of Harwood-Bellis, praising both his footballing talent and personal qualities. With a grin, he commented, "He's got a goal threat in him, even playing for Southampton. It's nice for him. He's a nice kid, his family's done a good job."
This season, Harwood-Bellis has made 25 appearances for Southampton, scoring four goals and providing two assists. However, both Southampton and Portsmouth are struggling in the Championship, with the Saints in 15th place and Portsmouth languishing in 21st, adding extra significance to their derby clash.
Legacy of Big-Game Experience
Keane's own career featured numerous high-profile fixtures, including Celtic vs Rangers and Manchester United vs Arsenal – the latter also taking place on Sunday afternoon. His wealth of experience in pressure-cooker environments makes his advice particularly valuable for Harwood-Bellis as he prepares for one of English football's most passionate local rivalries.
This evolving mentor-protégé relationship highlights how football dynasties are being forged through family connections, with Keane's legendary insights now benefiting Southampton's defensive line through his future son-in-law.
