SAINTS defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis has pulled out of the England under-21 squad with a fresh injury, the club have confirmed. 

Stockport-born Harwood-Bellis, 21, has started the last six consecutive Championship matches for manager Russell Martin.

After a shaky start at his new loan club, Harwood-Bellis had begun to strike a partnership with Jan Bednarek, conceding just two in their last three.

Captain Jack Stephens suffered a medium-term injury in August, depleting the defensive ranks, and is still yet to return.

Saints face further disruption at the back with talkSPORT reporting that Harwood-Bellis has picked up a hamstring injury.

Saints have released a statement, confirming: "Harwood-Bellis will return to Staplewood Campus with an injury despite being called up to England's Under-21s.

"The 21-year-old was due to face Serbia and Ukraine in EURO 2025 qualifiers with Lee Carsley's side.

"Harwood-Bellis has now returned to the club where he will be further assessed. An update will be provided in due course."

Any blow to Harwood-Bellis could forge a way back into the starting team for Northern Ireland international Shea Charles or Everton loanee Mason Holgate.

Harwood-Bellis, although on loan after signing on deadline day, as first reported by the Daily Echo, could become a permanent Saints player.

The club retain a £20million buy option for the Man City defender but only in the event of promotion back to the Premier League.