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Burnley 3-0 Southampton: Premier League – Three Key Players

By Erik Franzo

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton is challenged by Jack Cork of Burnley during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Southampton FC at Turf Moor on August 10, 2019 in Burnley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton is challenged by Jack Cork of Burnley during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Southampton FC at Turf Moor on August 10, 2019 in Burnley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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BURNLEY, ENGLAND – AUGUST 10: Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse in action during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Southampton FC at Turf Moor on August 10, 2019 in Burnley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – AUGUST 10: Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse in action during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Southampton FC at Turf Moor on August 10, 2019 in Burnley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

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.