James Ward-Prowse
One can speculate if James Ward-Prowse would have still received the start if Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was 100% fit. The Danish captain did not come on until the 73rd minute, but Ward-Prowse did his best to impersonate his hard work for the full 90.
The role of two centre-midfielders is critical to overall team success. Alongside Oriol Romeu, Ward-Prowse was asked to break up passing lanes, win second balls from Burnley’s direct play, and try to start counter-attacks via interceptions. He is making this list because of his work ethic alone, but it could have been an even better performance.
Early in the first half he had a strong strike at goal, but directly at Burnley keeper Nick Pope. He also passed up a free kick from 19 yards out and allowed Ryan Bertrand to flash it over the bar. Ward-Prowse’s passing and service were not necessarily on display, and that was determined by his specific role, but he filled the centre of the park nicely.