James Ward-Prowse has officially returned to Southampton, signing a two-year deal at St Mary’s after three seasons away, where he was contracted to West Ham United.
After putting pen to paper on an emotional return, the Saints Academy product said, “It feels a bit surreal. The last couple of days have been pretty intense, but I’m delighted to be back, and to be wearing the red and white again is truly special.
“It’s the place I call home, obviously having come through the Academy since I was eight. It was an incredible journey up until the point that I left, but home is a special place and I always had it in the back of my mind that it was somewhere that I wanted to be. I’m here today very excited and looking forward to the challenge ahead.”
At 31, Ward-Prowse still has plenty of time to pursue further successes with Southampton. The returnee could form some brilliant partnerships in the Saints’ squad.
Cyle Larin
For the first time since Ward-Prowse departed in 2023, Southampton have found a star striker. Cyle Larin has scored the most goals of any Championship player since February, and could be boosted by Ward-Prowse’s return.
Both 31-year-olds: Ward-Prowse could supply Cyle Larin with extra service in the penalty area with his excellent set-pieces. The Canadian striker has become a cult hero already on the south coast - and the return of another could be the beginning of a great duo.
Leo Scienza
From one fan favourite to another - Leo Scienza has earned high praise after a great debut season and a sensational goal against rivals Portsmouth at Fratton Park.
No player in the Championship won more fouls than Scienza last season. If the 27-year-old can keep winning free-kicks on the edge of the box, James Ward-Prowse will have plenty of chances to score from them.
Ryan Manning and Welington
James Ward-Prowse’s return could help Southampton at left-back, even if the returnee won’t be playing there.
Irishman Ryan Manning is the starter there more often than not, and while Welington is equally capable, Manning’s set-piece threat has given him an edge. With James Ward-Prowse returning and likely to take over most dead-ball situations, Manning and Welington will be able to rotate more in a long 46-game season.
Cam Bragg
Young midfielder Cam Bragg was an excellent story for Southampton last campaign, proving a good option despite being told at the end of the previous season that he wasn’t good enough to even play in the EFL.
The arrival of experienced James Ward-Prowse, who, like Bragg, came through the Academy ranks at Staplewood, will hugely boost the 21-year-old. Ward-Prowse’s knowledge will help Cam Bragg improve as he looks to build a successful career.
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