Southampton 1-2 Burnley: Premier League – Three Key Saints Players

James Ward-Prowse

The 25-year-old was a welcome return to the side after his nasty injury and despite a scything challenge from former Saint Jack Cork, he played with his usual rigour and energy. With 6 aerials won and a passing accuracy of 90.9% (source: WhoScored), Ward-Prowse continued his run of good form.

He worked hard in and out of possession and posed his usual threat from corners. Although Burnley won the game, there was sufficient evidence that Ward-Prowse and Hojbjerg are still developing a strong partnership in the midfield.

One criticism that still remains with Ward-Prowse is that a player with technical ability should be scoring and assisting more goals. Whilst a return of 4 goals and 2 assists this season is hardly poor, there is a sense that he is capable of producing more given the fact he takes most free kicks and corners.

That being said, with winnable games looming, there is no reason why he cannot return to his purple patch of scoring akin to his efforts in the latter part of last season.