Taylor Harwood-Bellis described his first England senior call-up as “such a proud moment” for him and his family.

The Southampton defender, who captained the Under-21s to EURO 2023 glory last summer, was selected in Lee Carsley’s squad for this week’s Nations League matches against Greece and Republic of Ireland.

The Manchester City academy graduate believes his selection is reward for good form and is keen to establish himself in the squad during this camp.

He said: “Lee rang me on the morning of the squad announcement and told me I’d be with the seniors. I couldn’t quite believe it at first.

“My partner was next to me so she knew and I phoned my dad, who was very proud. He loves England and loves the fact that I played for them through the age groups. My family were ecstatic. Aaron Ramsdale messaged straight away, too, which was nice.”

“It means a lot. It’s such a proud moment. Even at the younger age groups I took pride at being called up. It’s a tough ask with the quality in the squad but I’m really happy. I’ve been performing well and from what I’ve been told it’s well deserved.”

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— England (@England) November 12, 2024

There are plenty of familiar faces for Harwood-Bellis, with eight of that U21 team either named last Thursday or subsequently drafted into Carsley’s squad.

John Stones, injured for this camp, and Kyle Walker were also described as a “big influence” from their time spent together at City.

He said: “Stones and Walker are leaders. They’re always there to help and they’re good guys to be around.

“I know the boys on a good level. I’ve spent a lot of time with them and it made it easier knowing them personally. Everyone’s made me feel welcome.

“The U21 EUROs title was a massive achievement and something I’m really proud of. We did it together as a team, and to celebrate together and with everybody congratulating us was great. You could feel how big it was in the country.

“There were always young lads coming into the senior team under Gareth Southgate as well and a pathway there. You’ve just got to play well at the top level and I’ve done that.”