Why Southampton handing James Ward-Prowse a new contract is a step in the right direction
According to The Telegraph, midfielder James Ward-Prowse has committed his future to Southampton by penning a new contract with the club.
Ward-Prowse, 25, whose current contract was due to expire after two years, is set to stay at St. Mary’s Stadium until 2025. The Saints youth product has followed in the footsteps of Shane Long and manager Ralph Hasenhuttl, who had also extended their stay a few days earlier.
The English international has been in tremendous form for the Saints in the last couple of years and has established himself as a key member of the squad. He was instrumental in helping his side bounce back after a horrendous start to the campaign when they were also humiliated by Leicester City in their home ground.
Ward-Prowse’s impressive performances also earned him a call-up to the national squad as he made his return to the England squad after two years.
Ward-Prowse – A reliable and consistent leader in Southampton’s midfield
The Saints have managed to end the campaign at a respectable 11th position after languishing in the relegation zone in the first half of the season. Manager Hasenhuttl has managed to turn things around for good as the Saints were beaten only once since the league restarted.
One of the key players in the squad has been Ward-Prowse. The English international has worked tirelessly as he featured in every minute of the season, a rare feat achieved by very few players. Despite the absence of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Ward-Prowse has done well and was also entrusted with the armband by his manager after the restart.
His involvement in every league game shows his importance to the team, which has limited midfielders in its ranks. And Hojbjerg’s departure would once again reduce their numbers. But with Ward-Prowse at his best, they could rely on him to deliver in some much-needed situations. He is capable of helping them to a better finish in the following campaigns and looks set to be their leader in the midfield.
A talented midfielder, the Englishman racked up 7 goals last season and continued with the fine form this term. He contributed with 5 goals and 5 assists in 44 games across all competitions this season and has established himself as a regular starter under Hasenhuttl.
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Verdict
At 25, he has already shown his leadership qualities and has a lot more to offer in the future. Given Southampton’s limited options in the middle of the park, keeping hold of their best player is the right decision. And if Ward-Prowse is able to continue with the fine form, he could help the Saints scale greater heights.
