Since leaving the South Coast in 2023, things haven’t exactly gone to plan for James Ward-Prowse.
Following Southampton’s relegation, Ward-Prowse moved to Conference League winners West Ham United.
Things started fairly well. In his first season, he was a staple under David Moyes, providing 7 goals and 7 assists in 37 Premier League games.
However, when Julen Lopetegui took over the following season, the free-kick specialist became a bit part player.
He was loaned out to Nottingham Forest but was recalled later in the season by Graham Potter.
Ward-Prowse was a regular starter once again. But it came at a cost.
The 31-year-old started the first six games of the season. Unfortunately, the Hammers only won one of those games.
As bad as West Ham’s team were performing, a lot of the criticism was directed at the Englishman. A fantastic technical player, Ward-Prowse lacks the energy that the West Ham midfield was crying out for.
Perhaps new boss Nuno Espirito Santo agreed. Ward-Prowse was dropped immediately and hasn’t even made the bench under the Portuguese manager.
Ward-Prowse joined the Saints at the age of 8, going on to make 410 senior appearances for the club. He was even appointed captain in 2020, so I see no reason as to why he wouldn’t be welcomed back with open arms.
They’ve already welcomed Oriol Romeu back so we could see the midfield pairing reunited.
As much love as I’m sure he has for the club, Ward-Prowse is undoubtedly a cut above Championship level. Although, perhaps James Ward-Prowse will fancy helping his beloved Saints back to the top flight.
Southampton have vastly improved since Tonda Eckert took over, winning six of their eight games with the German in charge.
West Ham may look to simply cut their losses in January and reinvest as they bid to avoid relegation.
However, Ward-Prowse’s wages will undoubtedly make a move more difficult, so perhaps a loan deal is more realistic.
