WINGER Sam Edozie insists England under-21 teammate and captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis is “promoting” calm and composure in the Saints dressing room.

Edozie, 20, received his first call-up premier youth team of the Three Lions in Luxembourg for European Championship qualifying in September.  

Harwood-Bellis, who signed for Saints on loan with a clause to buy if the club are promoted this campaign, is a seasoned veteran at under-21 level.

The defender captained the Young Lions to 2023 European Championship victory after a 1-0 final win over Spain, without conceding a single goal all tournament in Georgia.

Harwood-Bellis has made back-to-back starts for manager Russell Martin and, despite suffering defeat in both, should keep his spot for Saturday’s trip to Middlesbrough.

Edozie, speaking to the Daily Echo, said: “He’s a leader and a great guy. He’s very calm and composed.

“He’s kind of promoting that feeling in the changing room to try and stay composed. That’s exactly what we need. He’s a great asset to have in the squad.”

Edozie had made over a dozen appearances for previous England youth teams but still awaits his official debut for Lee Carsley’s side after being an unnamed substitute.

Edozie added: “It was a great experience for me to get my first call up. I know I didn’t get onto the pitch.

“Being amongst the team in training was a nice moment for me. Hopefully, there will be more of that to come.”

Edozie caught the eye after starting every Championship match of the season so far, scoring his first senior goal against QPR.

The former Manchester City youngster has since followed that up with a cool chip in the 4-1 beating by Leicester City.

“I’ve always liked to play with confidence. The goals are something that I’ve looked to add,” he explained.

“Even when I didn’t have the goals I would still play with confidence. That’s the way I’ve always been. I will continue to play with confidence and hopefully, I can keep scoring.”