SAINTS defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis has been pictured training with the England senior team ahead of their game against Malta on tomorrow. 

The 21 year old has been called up by England's Under-21s, who he captains, for their Euro qualifiers against Serbia and Northern Ireland.

Harwood-Bellis captained England's Under-21 side to European Championship glory this summer before joining Southampton.

England have lost defenders Levi Colwill and Lewis Dunk to injury during this camp, while Jude Bellingham, James Maddison and Callum Wilson have also withdrawn.

It's not uncommon for young players to step up to train with the senior national team while away on international duty, but Harwood-Bellis' inclusion is a sign of faith by England's higher-ups.

Harwood-Bellis has played 10 games in the Championship this season under manager Russell Martin, striking a formidable partnership with Polish international Jan Bednarek.

The Manchester City academy graduate is currently only at Southampton on loan, however, they reserve the right to buy him permanently should they gain promotion back to the Premier League.

Speaking to the Daily Echo earlier this season, Harwood-Bellis insisted he would “snap your hand off” to stay at Saints should they bounce back to the top flight at the first attempt. 

"That’s the drive of the whole club, to get back to the Premier League, and that’s where I want to be," he noted.

“I wouldn’t have come here if that wasn’t the club's ambition. If someone said to me, you’ll be playing for Southampton in the Premier League next year, I’d snap your hand off.

“I haven’t thought too much about that yet as it is a long way away and we have to grind to get ourselves there.

“I’ve loved it here, it’s a lovely part of the world. I’ve settled in well and that’s due to the staff, the players and everyone at the club. I’m enjoying my time here.”