Should Ward-Prowse be targeting a move to the top six?

Despite Southampton’s struggles this season, where relegation is still a very possible threat, one player has become a consistent performer for the Saints. James Ward-Prowse is enjoying a fine season at St. Mary’s, but should he be targeting a summer move?

Ward-Prowse flourishing

Under Mark Hughes, Ward-Prowse’s value to the team was being repeatedly questioned and he rarely played 90 minutes under the Welshman as the Saints struggled for points in the Premier League. However, following the appointment of Ralph Hasenhuttl, the 24-year-old has enjoyed a new leash of life and is playing the best football of his career as the Saints battle the drop.

Often touted as a dead ball specialist, fans have been yearning for Ward-Prowse to fulfill his potential on the south coast as his talent was never in question. Yet, consistency and niggling injuries have often hindered him. But now the creative midfielder is firing on all cylinders, as his crisp passing, mobility and accurate deliveries are beginning to shine through.

The midfielder from Portsmouth has notched up an impressive five goals in his last 9 Premier League games, including a goal in the narrow to defeat to Manchester United. Hasenhuttl has placed a lot of faith in the man so often overlooked, and it is beginning to pay dividends with goals and results are improving. It is clear that if Southampton are to survive the drop, Ward-Prowse will be pivotal.

His vast improvement in form has also been noticed by England manager Gareth Southgate, who is rumoured to be eyeing up a recall to the national team, following his debut against Germany in 2017.

Interest from above

However, as is standard whenever a player is in fine form for a so-called ‘lesser’ club, the vultures begin to circle and rumours begin to circulate about which big team will land his signature in the upcoming transfer window. This hunt will only be intensified should Southampton face relegation. However, for Ward-Prowse, a move to a top 6 club could be the move he needs to further aid his development and become a genuinely top level talent.

Currently, he is often in a losing team who are focused on not conceding which does not allow his talents to flourish. Yet, at a bigger club, where the emphasis would often be on attacking creativity, Ward-Prowse’s talents would be able to shine through with less defensive expectation placed on his shoulders.

But which club would he be most suited to? It would not be a surprise to see Tottenham Hotspurs making a move. A transfer to North London could be the perfect opportunity for Ward-Prowse, especially if Christian Eriksen leaves for Real Madrid. Spurs, who were recently linked with a move for Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge, are crying out for offensive reinforcements as their season is beginning to fall apart. The midfielder could be the perfect catalyst for next season’s title challenge, and replace the likes of Erik Lamela and Lucas Moura who have often been underwhelming.

However, for now, Ward-Prowse will be focusing on ensuring Southampton avoid the drop whilst battling his way back into Southgate’s plans with Euro 2020 only around the corner. But in the summer, it would not be a surprise to see the big clubs circling and opting for a move for the talented Englishman.

Featured Image Credit: “Southampton FC versus FC Augsburg” (CC BY 2.0) by Solent Creatives