Southampton: James Ward-Prowse must start against Newcastle

James Ward-Prowse has been in red-hot form since the turn of 2018, and has arguably been Saints’ best performer since with an England call beckoning.

However the midfielder’s abscence from the starting XI against Stoke City, (a massive game given Southampton’s position), was somewhat a surprise.

Though the young English star has only had a hand in six of Southampton’s goals so far this campaign, they have come since early January, and therefore been a vital player in helping Saints not drop into the relegation zone.

Ward-Prowse (JWP) has also been extremely influential and performed to a high-level in must win games. The Saints’ 3-2 win away at the Hawthorns to beat fellow relegation candidates West Brom is the best example of this, where the 23-year-old picked up an assist and scored a crucial free-kick to pick up the three points.

Next: Saints 0-0 Stoke City: Match takeaways

WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 03: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton celebrates scoring their third goal during the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Southampton at The Hawthorns on February 3, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images) /

So why was he dropped against Stoke then? Well, the midfielder has been implemented out-wide on the right, he has the crossing ability, but no pace – nor skill and pace to take on his man.

Therefore, Josh Sims was utilised in this position, and though he had a stormer of a game, and was arguably one of Southampton’s better performers in the 0-0 draw at home, there must be a way to still incorporate JWP.

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So why is it important that the academy graduate starts? There are a few reasons, his crossing ability being the main one, with January arrival Guido Carrillo yet to make a mark in a Southampton shirt, it’s common sense he could use JWP’s delivery to good affect.

There has also been mass desire from the Southampton fan base for the use of two strikers, a switch to a diamond 4-4-2 with to allow Manolo Gabbiadini to create a partnership with Carrillo might help solve problems in front of goal.

Ward-Prowse would fit into this system as the right-hand sided midfielder, adding a balance with his leadership and concentration – as well a attacking threat in his crossing ability and direct passing style. With this Josh Sims, who has been making waves of late would be ultilised as the attacking outlet behind the two strikers, and the freedom to run at defenders – a strength of his.

To finalise, JWP’s form and level of commitment has been way too good to be dropped from the starting line-up, as stated above he has easily kept Saints within a chance of staying up. To avoid destroying this form, and therefore an outlet that can win us crucial points, he must be started against Newcastle, not just for his sake, but Southampton’s too.