Roy Keane is widely remembered as one of football's most intimidating figures during his playing days, known for his fierce aggression and brutal tackling. However, a gentler side of the Manchester United icon has been unveiled by his future son-in-law, Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
Keane's softer side emerges
The Southampton defender, who is set to marry Keane's daughter Leah later this year, has offered a rare glimpse into the personal life of the former midfielder. In an interview with The Sun, Harwood-Bellis shared how Keane has become a trusted mentor.
"He's one of the people, barring my immediate family, who I know for a fact has only my interests in mind," said Harwood-Bellis. "The advice he gives me, I know he's got my full interests at heart, so he has helped me with decisions."
When asked if Keane regularly attends his matches at St Mary's, the defender added: "He's been to a few games. He's got his own life, so he's not going to sit around watching me too much. He shows me lots of support and he doesn't say well done too often, unless I've done something special."
FA Cup semi-final clash
Harwood-Bellis has a chance to make Keane even happier by beating his old rivals Manchester City in this weekend's FA Cup semi-final. However, if Keane decides to watch the match at Wembley, he will pay for his own ticket. On the "Stick to Football" podcast, Keane was asked by Gary Neville and Ian Wright whether he would ask for complimentary tickets. He replied: "You think I'm going to bother him for tickets? No chance."
Humorous jibe over England debut
Keane's wit was also on display when Harwood-Bellis scored on his England debut against Ireland in a 5-0 Nations League victory at Wembley. Having recently proposed to Leah, the defender headed in against Keane's home country. Keane joked: "It's not done and dusted yet, things can change really quickly in the Keane household! It's nice for him, it's good for him to make his debut. He is a really good kid and his family have done a great job."
Harwood-Bellis and Leah announced in August last year that they are expecting their first child, which will make Keane a grandfather for the fourth time.
