James Ward-Prowse's prowess from set-pieces is well known. However, his ability in open play is underrated, and he has been one of Southampton's most creative players this season.
Ward-Prowse's free-kicks have been spectacular over the years. He has scored 17 in the Premier League, which is just one behind David Beckham's record. Had it not been for a couple of tumultuous years at West Ham, where he was sent on loan to Nottingham Forest and Burnley, he may have overtaken Beckham's record.
There is more to Ward-Prowse's game than just being the man who can score from free kicks. According to FOOTYMETRICS, Ward-Prowse has made seven key passes in six Championship games so far this season. Only one of these has amounted to an assist, when he set up Welington's goal in a 1-1 draw with Lincoln City.
It must be noted that Ward-Prowse started this season at West Ham. He played 45 minutes against Burnley on the opening weekend of the season. However, he has a strange relationship with West Ham boss Nuno Espírito Santo. This stems from Nuno failing to give him much game time when he had him on loan at Forest.
Southampton fans have loved having James Ward-Prowse back
A return to the Saints was fitting for Ward-Prowse as he came through the club's academy and was with the first team from 2011 to 2023. He left St. Mary's following relegation and enjoyed a good first season at West Ham before a difficult couple of years, which included the loans.
Despite having a four-point deduction as a result of the Spygate scandal, Southampton are still eighth in the division. This is a credit to the manager, Tonda Eckert, but he still awaits a potential punishment for his involvement in a staff member spying on a Middlesbrough training session and other games throughout the season. This resulted in the Saints being kicked out of the playoffs.
Eckert could face a ban that would likely see him removed as Southampton's manager. If this happens, then the Saints will need leaders. Ward-Prowse would step up to the plate there, as he was the club's captain before he departed for West Ham and is very experienced at 31 years old.
Jack Stephens is the club's current captain, so for now Ward-Prowse can focus more on his individual performances. He started in central midfield in the draw with Lincoln and the win over Bristol City. However, he played in a deeper role in the emphatic 4-1 victory over Bristol City. Despite playing in a defensive midfield role, Ward-Prowse's passing range still allows him to be creative. The Saints will need him to keep up these performances if they are to be succesful this season.
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