Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse has quietly been among the most consistent players in the Premier League for the past 5 years. And while he flew under the radar for the majority of his career, the 28-year-old is finally receiving the recognition he deserves.
The Saints’ skipper is no less than a Premier League veteran, his career in the English Top Flight spans more than 12 years, all spent at St Mary’s.
Despite his lifelong associations with Southampton, recent reports have pointed towards a move away for the England International, with his potential suitors being the likes of West Ham, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur.
Known primarily for his set-piece abilities, Ward-Prowse’s technique is extremely sound, the midfielder’s deliveries from corners and long-range set-pieces are essentially cheat codes.
His deliveries have directly contributed to countless goals for Southampton and his efforts from close-range free-kicks are similarly impressive.
In fact, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to suggest that JWP might be the most revered set-piece taker in the Prem, such is the calibre of his deliveries.
Aside from dead-ball talents, Ward-Prowse mainly functions as a holding midfielder, capable of functioning as part of a pivot or a midfield trio.
Possessing excellent passing range and solid defensive awareness, the 28-year-old can find attackers through pin-point passes while also executing his defensive responsibilities effectively.
The Southampton Academy product is also a hard worker at the heart of the pitch, always willing to press aggressively and compete for duels.
With plenty to offer, JWP would be a smart signing especially when considering the relatively humble transfer fee the Saints would demand.
As per reports, the club are willing to let their prized asset go as a result of their impending relegation from the top flight.
With Spurs reportedly interested, the potential signing appears to be a sound one on the face of it.
Currently, Spurs are making do with the reliable duo of Pierre Emile-Hojbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur as first-choice midfielders. But with the latter presently sidelined, they’ve had to turn to Oliver Skipp, who is proving to be a less ideal backup.
Summer signing Yves Bissouma has also proved to be underwhelming, leaving Spurs with a gap in midfield personnel.
A potential move for James Ward-Prowse could plug this gap effectively, as the 28-year-old would bring a sense of authority alongside his various talents.
A midfield trio comprised of Hojbjerg, Bentancur and JWP has all the tools to do the trick for Spurs, and it also has the right balance on paper.
With Antonio Conte out of the picture, the Lilywhites could revert to a midfield three under new management next season, a possibility they’ll have to prepare for.