Ex-Saints ex-captain James Ward-Prowse earned praise from both media and fans for his impressive displays in the early stages of his West Ham career.
Praised for his proficiency in set-pieces, James Ward-Prowse has been hailed for his contributions since joining West Ham, tallying five goals and 11 assists in 40 appearances.
Notably, he netted crucial goals from open play against Brighton and Manchester City and provided a decisive assist in the dying moments against Nottingham Forest.
Under David Moyes’ guidance, his set-piece expertise has been effectively utilized, elevating West Ham to seventh place in the Premier League and contention for UEFA competition qualification for the fourth consecutive season.
Leaving Southampton last summer after two decades, Ward-Prowse sought Premier League and European football, recognizing it as his pathway back into the England squad.
Despite being one direct free-kick goal shy of David Beckham’s record, he has yet to add to his tally of 17 set-piece strikes this season. His absence from Gareth Southgate’s final Three Lions squad for the European Championships looms large, with Moyes acknowledging the fierce competition for selection.
Facing recent challenges, Ward-Prowse’s starting role at West Ham has come into question after being substituted at halftime in two consecutive matches following a disappointing performance against Freiburg and Burnley.
With other midfield options like Lucas Paqueta, Edson Alvarez, and Tomas Soucek proving instrumental, Ward-Prowse finds himself competing for a spot in the starting lineup. However, he remains eager to contribute in West Ham’s Europa League quarter-final clash against Bayer Leverkusen, aiming to make an impact in the knockout stages of European competition.