Posted inDaily News
#PLStories- West Ham defender Emerson Palmieri names the one West Ham signing who has impressed everyone after transfer #WHUFC
West Ham defender Emerson Palmieri says the club's transfer business this summer has…
Posted inDaily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse hails ‘incredible’ performance on debut at West Ham #WHUFC
West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse said he felt he made a “dream debut”…
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton boss Ruben Selles addresses James Ward-Prowse’s substitution amid uncertainty #SAINTSFC
The 28 year old was substituted for 16 year old academy starlet Sam Amo-Ameyaw after 87 minutes in front of his supporters at St Mary’s.
Ward-Prowse, on his 409th club appearance, had scored the first of his side’s four goals on the evening, seemingly wiping tears from his eyes as he left the pitch.
Selles, asked if the substitution was a goodbye, explained: “It wasn't a goodbye. Prowsey has been here for 20 years and is the captain.
“He deserved that moment with the crowd to end the season that hasn't been easy. We didn't think about what happens next."
Theo Walcott confirmed ahead of the match that it would be his final appearance for the club, coming to the end of a contract in his second spell at the club.
Walcott has made 82 appearances for Saints after emerging from the academy in 2005 and making a transfer to Arsenal the next year.
Selles added: "I have no bad words to speak about Theo Walcott, his performance and him as a person.
“He's been an amazing professional for the club. Every time he plays he gives 100 per cent and he tries to make the other players better."
"He has been a threat for the opposition every time and he has been trying to do the very best for himself, for the club and for his teammates.
“So for me, it has been a blessing to coach a player like him and I personally wish him all the best."
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse admits Southampton standards ‘have slipped’ causing relegation #SAINTSFC
The St Mary’s side have been condemned to Championship football after a 2-0 defeat to Fulham on Saturday.
There are two games remaining of the Premier League campaign but Saints cannot catch up, with eight points separating themselves and safety.
READ MORE: 'I take all the responsibility for the last three months' - Selles
READ MORE: Live updates as Saints are relegated
Ward-Prowse, who has made 407 appearances for the club, addressed the media following the match.
He said: "Disappointing. It has been coming. We knew we were in a difficult position.
"We need to go away individually and as a club and assess if we've done everything we possibly could. I don't think we have and that is a shame.
"I think as a team and a club overall we'll think about the season that has gone by. Have decisions been right? Have we done everything we could on a pitch?"
He added: "I think we should perform at a better level than we have done. From the first day of the season until now you can tell the standards have slipped.
"I have been here right through from eight years old, for all the ups and downs. I'm sure with the good people at the club it will be back in the Premier League in no time.
"Over the last 10 years, we have had that kind of consistency and that has wavered. It will be testing for everybody but these are the times that make you as a player and as a club, we have done it before and we will do it again."
Asked again about his future, he responded: "I'm not thinking too far ahead. We've just been relegated from the Premier League.
"I'm not looking beyond tomorrow. It's about sticking together and dealing with it in the right way."
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse accepts responsibility but points to Southampton mistake at start of season #SAINTSFC
The 28 year old cut a frustrated figure as he chatted through Monday’s 4-3 defeat at a sodden City Ground, Nottingham Forest.
Ward-Prowse converted an added-time penalty after having set up Lyanco with a corner-kick delivery at the start of the second half but Saints could not salvage a result.
The defeat leaves them eight points adrift of safety with only nine more to play for – relegation could be confirmed as early as this weekend.
READ MORE: Orsic nearing exit to bring to end puzzling Southampton transfer saga
Ward-Prowse, who admitted he does not know where his future lies next season as he told the Daily Echo his focus is on the remaining games, assessed how the club have reached rock bottom.
Obviously, a disappointed captain as James Ward-Prowse insists his focus is on "giving my all for the club – which I always have done".But he says "what happens beyond, who knows? I don’t know." A side note sadly but very good performance from him at City Ground. #SaintsFC
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) May 9, 2023
“Ultimately it is players on the pitch that reflect where the club is,” he said. “But we all know the changes that happened at the start of the season have had an impact.
“They have had an impact going into the season in terms of where we are as a group with the players we lost and the players we brought in.”
Saints doubled down on their policy of signing talented young players to replace experienced leavers such as Fraser Forster, Oriol Romeu and Nathan Redmond.
The St Mary’s side have been beaten by one goal in all but one of their meetings versus relegation rivals in 2023, just not exhibiting enough to get over the line in key moments.
They have also suffered definitive physical breakdowns in young players such as Romeo Lavia, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Juan Larios and Tino Livramento over the last 13 months.
“Of course, the young players we have brought in are going to have fantastic futures and we are all hoping that they will do,” Ward-Prowse added.
“But equally the players that we lost and the experience that we lost in the dressing room, and not just on the pitch, did take an effect and has led us to where we are now.
“We gave away two sloppy goals, pulled a goal back and to concede four goals says a lot about where we are as a team.
“We know the situation we find ourselves in. It is not over until it is over. I don’t think it is any different to the previous weeks.
“We know we have to take maximum points now and hope results go the right way. That is our focus going forwards now.”
Ward-Prowse also addressed some interesting full-time scenes at City Ground after the defeat, which saw Saints players standing rooted to the spot staring blankly back at their supporters.
Many of the travelling contingent applauded their players while others made their feelings known with a season in the Championship next campaign almost a guarantee.
“There was a lot of frustration. As players you feel the responsibility of why the club is where it is,” Ward-Prowse explained.
“Decisions can be made off the pitch about personnel or managers but ultimately it is you as players going out to deliver on the pitch in those fine moments.
“We all know the fine margins of the Premier League. Right from day one of pre-season we have not done that as a club. Not just the players, but as a club and that is why we are where we are.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse tells Southampton what they must do after surprise Arsenal draw #SAINTSFC
The St Mary’s outfit missed a chance to climb off the bottom of the Premier League table after Arsenal scored two late goals to draw 3-3 on Friday evening.
The result follows points taken against Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal already this campaign – with south coast rivals AFC Bournemouth up next.
With the teams also fighting relegation still to play this weekend, Saints are not just three points adrift of safety with Thursday’s clash with Cherries looking huge.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the Arsenal game, Ward-Prowse said: “A great game to play and incredible atmosphere and you can definitely feel a positive feeling here.
“We took our chances really well and we knew they'd come on in the second half. It's a good point to come here, but we are disappointed not to take all three.
"It's a massive blow, but we have to take a lot of positives from it and I was surprised to see eight minutes at the end, a strange amount to be added on. But we have to defend better.”
He added: "We lost our identity a bit and Ruben has definitely got that back on track with the high aggressive press. I think we tired towards the end and we came up against a world-class side.
"We need to follow it up with good performance and good results. We always get good points against the so-called good teams but need to follow it up in following games."
Saints have been beaten by Nottingham Forest, Wolves, Leeds United and West Ham United already in 2023 - while the opposition were in 19th.
"There is still a lot of football. We've got to keep believing," Ward-Prowse concluded, however.
Saints host AFC Bournemouth at St Mary’s on Thursday night with the Cherries already nine points clear of their counterparts ahead of playing this weekend.
Ward-Prowse and the squad then visit Champions League-chasing Newcastle United on Sunday and face relegation rivals Nottingham Forest following that.
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton captain James Ward Prowse reflects on ‘terrific’ support despite Man City loss #SAINTSFC
Their latest defeat leaves Saints rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table, four points adrift of safety with eight games to go.
And despite the increasingly darkening situation, Saints fans once again turned out en-masse for their team, something that didn’t go unnoticed by Ward-Prowse.
“I think they’ve been terrific all season,” the Saints captain told club media after Man City’s 4-1 win.
“We’ve not given them a lot to shout about and that’s down to us but we’ve still got a chance to put it right and we’ll make sure that we, regardless of the result, will give ourselves an opportunity and a chance to stay in the Premier League.”
READ MORE: 'Works for Guardiola' - Selles has say on De Bruyne's Saints striker claim
Saints held their own for much of the first half against the reigning champions before Erling Haaland headed the visitors in front shortly before the break. Jack Grealish then doubled the advantage before Haaland notched his 30th league goal of the season.
Sekou Mara made it 3-1 with just under 20 minutes left to play but any Saints hope was short-lived as Julian Alvarez wrapped things up from the penalty spot moments later.
James Ward-Prowse in action against Man City. (Image: PA)
“Of course, it was a difficult game,” Ward-Prowse said. “We’re playing up against a world class side. You need everything in the game. You need a bit of luck. You need good defending, and you have to take your chances.
“I think that was the only thing that was missing for us in the first half was just that killer instinct. I think we had a few good opportunities, but we have to take them, and the timing of their goal was crucial for them and took the wind out of our sails.
“The game got away from us in the second half. It’s a disappointing day.
“I think we always enjoy playing City because it’s a team that wants to play. It gives us an opportunity to press and be aggressive. I think we did that at times today and we put them on the back foot but in those crucial moments we need to take our chances and we failed to do that today.”
Saints now have a week to prepare for another huge game in their battle to avoid the drop as Crystal Palace visit St Mary’s next weekend.
With Saints still set to play Arsenal, Brighton, Liverpool, and Newcastle, there is immense pressure on Selles’s side to beat Palace and ignite their safety bid.
“I think every game we debrief. We have a look at what went well and what we can improve so we’ll do that tomorrow and look forward to next week,” Ward-Prowse added.
“Every game is crucial for us now. It’s important for us not to get too down today. Of course, you’re up against a world class side, you have to take the lessons and the learnings from it but get back together tomorrow and look forward to next weekend.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals before taking penalty, I was not looking at Fraser Forster, I knew I’d laugh! #SAINTSFC
The 28 year old skipper netted from the spot in added time during a 3-3 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, facing an old friend in the process.
Ward-Prowse and Forster used to live next door to each other in Winchester before the goalkeeper left St Mary’s for Spurs last summer.
Forster faced Saints for the first time since his exit with Spurs captain Hugo Lloris injured, but he could deny close friend Ward-Prowse when it mattered most.
“Playing against Fraser, he’s my best friend, played with him for many years and he was my next-door neighbour for a while,” Ward-Prowse told BBC One’s Match of the Day.
“Playing around with my son in the garden and mucking about, he knows my penalties,” the skipper said.
“I was trying not to look at him because I knew I’d laugh! More importantly, it was imperative I stuck to my focus, technique and my practice and thankfully it came off.”
The result leaves Saints bottom of the Premier League but still just two points adrift of safety with 10 matches remaining of the campaign.
St Mary’s erupted as Ward-Prowse buried his first penalty of three this season to post a sixth league goal for the hopeful England international.
Ward-Prowse said: “I think it felt like a win at the end there. You could feel it in the stadium, everyone appreciated our work and that’s got to be a given for the rest of the season.”
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton FC captain James Ward-Prowse on week of ‘chaos’ and ‘noise’ #SAINTSFC
Saints haven’t had enough of those special moments this season. Approaching Saturday’s trip to West London, Saints had racked up just four Premier League wins all season while it had been 35 days since their most recent success away at Everton.
But with a trademark swing of James Ward-Prowse’s right boot, Saints claimed a gigantic victory and the celebrations in front of the Stamford Bridge away end were merely a window into the scale of this win.
READ MORE: Victory over Chelsea restores something long lost at Saints - we can see belief
“That’s what it's all about,” Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo of the scenes that greeted the full-time whistle.
“They work hard following us up and down the country. It’s not been a great season, we know that, and to give them those sort of moments… you see the joy and passion on their faces at the end.
“That’s what football’s all about, giving people that feeling and hopefully, we can give them that more consistently now.”
Saints celebrate their win at Chelsea on Saturday in front of the travelling fans. (Image: PA)
It’s a considerably different mood around the club now compared to last weekend when Wolves came from a goal down - with a man less - to beat Saints 2-1 and inspire a cacophony of boos at St Mary’s.
The defeat marked the end of the disastrously brief Nathan Jones era at Southampton Football Club and after a week of rumours - most notably that Jesse Marsch was set to take over the vacant managerial role - it was Ruben Selles who led Saints to Chelsea.
And it was Selles who was pushed to the front of the celebratory melee of Saints players and staff as Chelsea trudged off the pitch following the shock result.
“Huge win for us. It’s been a tough week, there’s been a lot of noise, a lot of chaos,” Ward-Prowse reflected.
“And for us to get through that in the way that we did, I think speaks a lot about the group that we’ve got and the way that we’ve been managed this week, and we’ve come away with a huge three points.
“I think Ruben took over at a time of a bit of stress and he’s calmed everybody down and given us a familiar way of playing. So I’m incredibly pleased for him.
James Ward-Prowse was the hero yet again as Saints beat Chelsea on Saturday. (Image: PA)
“He’s come in and shown a real passion for what he wants to do. I think there’s a lot of speculation around who’s going to take the job but he could only do what he did today and everybody wanted to play for him and give him a good chance.”
Despite the win, Saints remain bottom of the Premier League table and Ward-Prowse is under no illusion about the challenge in store for him and his team to beat the drop.
“It doesn’t matter who the manager is, we have to perform and give 100% no matter what,” the Saints captain continued.
“But today is a springboard, now it’s just a question of being consistent with it to give ourselves a good chance for the next few games.
READ NEXT: The state of Saints Premier League survival hopes after dramatic week at the bottom
“I think there are a lot of things out of our control and we can’t control everything. But Ruben has steadied that this week, given us a bit of calm, given us a bit of belief in how we go about things.
“And now it’s about doing it on a consistent basis and not getting too carried away with the win today. Yeah, it’s fantastic, but we forget about it by tomorrow and look forward to next week.”
Saints are back in action on Saturday when they head to Elland Road for another massive game in their season, facing Leeds United who sit just one place and one point ahead.
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy reveals surprise at Ward-Prowse World Cup snub #SAINTSFC #WorldCup2022
SAINTS goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has expressed his surprise that ‘ridiculous’ James Ward-Prowse failed to make Gareth Southgate’s England World Cup squad.
Ward-Prowse earned his 11th cap in June’s 0-0 Nations League draw with Italy but for the second successive major tournament, the Saints captain missed the cut for Southgate’s final squad.
While his form has nosedived alongside his entire team, Ward-Prowse still leads the Premier League in distance covered this season, something McCarthy pointed to recently on The Yours, Mine, Away! Podcast.
1️⃣7️⃣4️⃣km 🤯@Prowsey16 has covered more ground than any other #PL player so far this season 🏃♂️💨 pic.twitter.com/nYQwPokNDp
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) November 22, 2022
"He regularly covers more than 12 kilometres in a game, which is just ridiculous,” the back-up Saints keeper said. “To be fair, I was surprised he didn't go to the World Cup."
"He is just unbelievable. You just expect him to score or at least hit the target, when he takes a free-kick.
"You know he is going there with the whip he can get on the ball, and you try to go early, but he can just go the other side. I wind him up in training because I do go early, but his technique is just unbelievable and he is so professional with the work he does on and off the pitch, he deserves it.”
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Kyle Walker praises three England teammates and sets himself a Man City challenge #MCFC
Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has heaped praise on Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold, Newcastle's…
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse on World Cup hopes and lack of goals #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse admits he would be "lying" if he said the World Cup was not on his mind, as he looks to force his way into the England squad.
There are now less than four weeks until the tournament starts in Qatar, with Gareth Southgate looking to put together a squad of 26 players to end the country's 56-year wait for glory in the event.
Ward-Prowse has regularly been part of England squads in recent years, and has netted twice in his 11 senior caps.
But the Saints skipper was left out of the final group for Euro 2020 and could face a battle for his spot again this time around.
Asked if he was thinking about the upcoming World Cup, or if his focus remained purely on Saints, Ward-Prowse told Sky Sports: "I'd be lying if I said it wasn't.
"I think it's on everybody's minds. Everybody's looking forward to it and there's still a lot of football to be played between now and then.
"So concentrate on the club football and hopefully that will take care of itself."
The 27-year-old reached double figures for goals for Saints last season, but has managed to net just once so far this term, that coming on the opening day at Tottenham.
Discussing his lack of goals, Ward-Prowse said: "I've not had many opportunities with the free-kick side of things. But that's not the main focus of my game.
"My game is a lot more about the goals and the work that I do for the team.
"So as long as I do that right, the goals will come."
Saints have recently turned a corner, picking up five points from three games over the space of eight days.
That came on the back of four straight defeats and has lifted Ralph Hasenhuttl's men out of the relegation zone and up into 16th.
"We know it wasn't the greatest start to the season, but last week was huge for us," said Ward-Prowse.
"Five points is a good total in the Premier League, considering the opposition.
"So we've got a good platform now to go to (Crystal) Palace on Saturday and look forward to that one."
Previewing the trip to Selhurst Park this weekend, Ward-Prowse added: "Tough. I think they've really improved under Patrick Vieira.
"We know it's a tough place to go.
"We've had good games with them down the years and I'm sure Saturday will be another one."
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton forward admits ‘hard to see’ teammates ignored by Gareth Southgate for national team #SAINTSFC
SAINTS attacker Adam Armstrong is confident teammates James Ward-Prowse and Kyle Walker-Peters won’t “dwell” on the disappointment of their respective England snubs but admitted it was “hard” to see the duo left out.
Saints captain Ward-Prowse was called up to Gareth Southgate’s squad for the final set of international fixtures ahead of this winter’s World Cup.
READ MORE: How Saints' have added creative wrinkles to corner routines
But the midfielder played zero minutes across England’s two matches, not even making the squad for Monday’s 3-3 draw with Germany.
Walker-Peters, who earned his first Three Lions cap in March, wasn’t even handed a place in the squad despite a strong start to the season.
“It’s hard to see because they’ve played so well week in week out to deserve that call-up,” Armstrong told the Daily Echo ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Everton.
“But every manager has got their own opinions and for example, Prowsey’s not one to dwell on things. He works hard every day and that won’t affect him one bit. He’ll keep being Prowsey and that’s the main thing.”
Ward-Prowse pictured in action for England. Image: PA
The snub this week leaves Ward-Prowse’s chances of making Southgate's squad for the World Cup in serious doubt. Regardless, Armstrong is confident his captain has the right mentality to move on from the disappointment, should it occur.
“That’s what Prowsey’s very good at. Getting that balance in the squad of when you’re winning games, not to be too high and when you’re losing not to be too down. You have to get that balance right and I think he has that and we have that in the squad.”
Ward-Prowse isn’t the only one needing to bounce back from disappointment as Saints prepare to host Everton this weekend, with Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side looking to move on from two consecutive defeats to go into the international break.
Saints have already taken a Premier League best seven points from losing positions this season and Armstrong sees their ability to recover - led by Ward-Prowse - as a major strength of this young squad.
“I think that’s the best thing we have in the squad. We never want to get too down, always work hard in training to put things right and it’s something we’ve been working on this season and hopefully it pays off on Saturday.
“We’ve had a lot of time to work on things and the lads had a nice rest as well so that’s been the main thing. And yeah, getting everybody together again has been good.
“I think the best way is to get back out there but as I touched on before, it’s been a good break and we’ve worked hard on things to put right and hopefully we can do that on Saturday.”
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse says he and Danny Ings were thinking about ‘Smashing’ each other #SAINTSFC
SAINTS skipper James Ward-Prowse admitted it was “all fun and games” to line up against close pal Danny Ings and insisted: “He will be wanting to smash me and I want to smash him come Friday night!”
Ings left Saints to join Villa for £30million last summer, in a sudden departure.
Having signed at St Mary’s from Liverpool following a successful loan spell, the Winchester-born striker netted 46 times in 100 games for Saints.
But Ings could be set to go toe-to-toe with Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side once again, when the club’s clash at Villa Park this evening (8pm).
Asked by the Daily Echo about facing up against Ings, Ward-Prowse said: “It’s strange coming up against somebody that you are close with.
“We are all friends before the game and it’s all great but, you know, he will be wanting to smash me and I want to smash him come Friday night!
“It’s all positive, all fun and games. That’s part of it.
“We will shake hands and have a hug after. It will be good to see him and, hopefully, keep him quiet”
Ings netted when Villa thumped Saints 4-0 in Birmingham, during the sides’ Premier League contest back in March.
Quizzed on how the south coast side would keep Ings quiet this time round, Ward-Prowse said: “I can’t give away too many tactical details we have been working on but, of course, he’s a fantastic player.
“If you give him the space he inevitably takes the opportunity. He is a player we are going to have to watch, for sure.”
Ward-Prowse himself was the subject of a £25million bid from Villa last summer. After that was rejected, Saints rewarded the England international with a fresh, long-term contract.
“Looking at it now, with the start of the season we’ve had it’s been an eventful one. I think we’ve a lot of challenges along the way,” said the Saints academy graduate.
“We have lost a lot of experienced players and gained a lot of young players.
“You never know how that’s going to go at the start because they’ve not got that experience behind them and we have lost a lot experience.
“But they have come and shown their eagerness and enthusiasm to play. That’s definitely rubbed off on the rest of the squad.”
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse believes Villa clash will be ‘special moment’ to show respect to the Queen #QueenElizabethII #SaintsFC
SKIPPER James Ward-Prowse said Saints’ squad “totally respected and understood” the decision to postpone last Saturday’s scheduled home clash with Brentford – and sent his condolences to the Royal Family on behalf of the club.
Football across the nation was paused over the weekend as a mark of respect to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away aged 96 last week.
Ward-Prowse is set to lead out Saints on their return to action on Friday when they make the trip to Aston Villa in the top flight (8pm), where tributes are set to be paid to Her late Majesty.
Asked how he and the squad felt about last weekend’s postponement, Ward-Prowse said: “I think the whole squad totally respected and understood the decision.
“First and foremost, on behalf of the club, our condolences go to the Royal Family for their loss and I think for everybody’s loss.
“It’s not been easy for everybody to take. Of course, we want to play football but often things are more important than playing football.
“Somebody’s lost their mother and we have all lost somebody very, very special. To pay our respects in that way I think was a fitting tribute.”
Saints’ trip to Villa is one of seven Premier League contests scheduled to go ahead this weekend, after an announcement by the Premier League on Monday.
Looking at the chance to pay tribute as captain on what promises to be an emotional night at Villa Park, Ward-Prowse said: “I think it will be a special moment.
“Although football fans didn’t get the opportunity last weekend to do it, it will be a really nice moment for everybody to come together and show our respects to Her Majesty.”
Following the pause in fixtures, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men are 12th in the league table, with seven points from their opening six league encounters.
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl explains James Ward-Prowse absence #SAINTSFC
SAINTS captain James Ward-Prowse missed the first match of pre-season after picking up a knock in training, but Ralph Hasenhuttl reassured supporters “it’s nothing serious”.
The 27-year-old England international is a mainstay in the St Mary’s side and made 42 appearances across all competitions last campaign.
His performances, including a personal best 10 goals in the Premier League season alone, have led to continued transfer interest from rivals in the division.
Ward-Prowse travelled with the Saints group for the Austria trip on Wednesday, set to play two games that began with a 3-1 defeat to German outfit RB Leipzig.
However, some supporters feared the worst when the skipper was not part of the squad that lined up to face the Champions League contenders at Lavanttal Arena.
“It’s nothing serious,” manager Hasenhuttl explained to Hampshire Live, on his captain’s absence. “But, in the end, we have what we have.
“We don’t have to ask any risks with James so we decided to leave him at home. We know what we get from him.”
The Austrian continued: “Absolutely it was the right thing to do (leaving him out).
“Last season in pre-season we had the same situation where he was also out with a knee injury. So this time it was good for us to try and test something different without him.”
The skipper could return to face Austrian Bundesliga SKA Klagenfurt on Monday, in the final match before Saints head back to England on Wednesday.
However, Hasenhuttl may opt to rest him fully – with further pre-season fixtures coming versus Watford, Monaco and Villareal, before the Premier League returns.
On his future, after links to the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and West Ham, Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo earlier this year: “My commitment stems from the training ground and my love for playing football.
“That is ultimately what has got me here and that will never, ever change. My passion and love for what I do.
“Making sure I enjoy every moment I’m out on the pitch. That is the way that I show my commitment and I’ll continue to do so.”
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse on his commitment to Southampton ahead of summer transfer window #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse insisted his commitment to Saints “stems from the training ground and love for playing” ahead of a summer with anticipated transfer interest.
The 27-year-old captain and England international had already been linked to the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United by the time last season was over.
That is testament to the 10 goals he registered – and a further five assists – for the first time in the Premier League, and an all-round contribution to the St Mary’s side.
Fees in the region of £75million had been reported elsewhere as required to prise the talisman away with a contract until 2026 safeguarding Ward-Prowse’s value.
He signed that deal to end Aston Villa sniffing around last summer, after a £25million offer from the Villans was rejected by the club.
Ward-Prowse spent the first two weeks of June away with the England national team, but only featured once in the wretched break - 90 minutes of a 0-0 draw with Italy.
And asked by the Daily Echo if he feels he can do anymore to show his commitment to the club and city, Ward-Prowse insisted: “My commitment stems from the training ground and my love for playing football.
“That is ultimately what has got me here and that will never, ever change. My passion and love for what I do and making sure I enjoy every moment I’m out on the pitch."
He added: “That is the way that I show my commitment and I’ll continue to do so.
“I think everybody wanted to finish the season well, and is looking forward to getting away and having that break.
“It’s an intense period of the year where we’re working very hard and it’s a nice moment to sit back and reflect on what has gone on in the last few months, and look forward to recharging the batteries.”
Ward-Prowse, like any player of his ability, is ambitious and – even if he does not admit it – will likely have stray thoughts of how he could contribute at the very top level.
The biggest disappointment of another slide down the Premier League table last season, with perhaps financial reward aside, is failing to show players like Ward-Prowse how the club is moving forward.
Ward-Prowse’s commitment to the club is such that he will sign the five-year deal to ward off interest and settle supporters’ nerves during an exodus of other key players.
But the club needs to repay that with fulfilling the maestro’s ambitions. Integral to that will be his Three Lions involvement under Gareth Southgate.
He has been open about the ‘hurt’ of narrowly missing the European Championship squad – how it made the nation’s joy difficult to stomach – and he will not want to experience that again this winter.
“I like to think so,” Ward-Prowse speculated, asked if he is doing enough to be in the camp this time around. “I have always said that what I do in a Southampton shirt will then enable me to hopefully be in the England squad.
“Hopefully I have done enough but I just concentrate on what I can do for now.”
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Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Oriol Romeu reveals two things that make Ward-Prowse’s free-kicks so special #SAINTSFC
MIDFIELDER Oriol Romeu believes James Ward-Prowse’s “given talent” backed up by his work-rate, gave him the claim to be one of the world’s best free-kick takers.
The Saints skipper struck his 14th direct free-kick goal in the Premier League for Saints, back at Brighton in April.
It took Ward-Prowse four short of David Beckham’s all-time record, standing at 18.
The likes of bosses Thomas Frank and Pep Guardiola have hailed the Saints star’s dead-ball acumen, with Romeu also praising the ability and application of the 27-year-old.
Speaking about Ward-Prowse’s free-kicks on The Big Interview with Graham Hunter podcast, Romeu said: "He’s crazy. The free-kicks around the box are always a goal chance but also corner kicks, side-kicks, the crosses are always dangerous.
“I’m thinking we should score more goals with the balls that are flying in but also you see in training when he has a shot it goals three centimetres out of the top corner
"The normal person like me or someone else, the shot goes five metres about the fence, the flight of the ball, his contact, it’s always so clean and perfect - he rarely changes.
“He is very accurate and very clean on the contact that’s what makes him so successful.”
He added: “There’s two things there, one, he’s got a given talent, then on the practice side, he does practice.
“Every week you see him practicing free-kicks but he loves doing it, it’s a bit of both."
Ward-Prowse could add to his 10 senior England caps when the Three Lions take on Hungary in the UEFA Nations League on Saturday (5pm).
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse questions Leicester City ‘sportsmanship’ after Southampton controversy #LCFC #SAINTSFC
James Ward-Prowse has questioned Leicester City's "sportsmanship" after their controversial opening goal against…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse makes Leicester City admission ahead of final Premier League game #LEIFC #SAINTSFC
Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse believes Leicester City are an inspiration to teams like…
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLSTORIES- James Ward-Prowse addresses fan concern, form and Premier League award #SAINTSFC
WHILE the end to the season may have been anything but, Saints can proudly lay claim to having an aspect truly elite within their ranks.
Marshalling by example, their captain, leader and legend-in-waiting is among the select of the Premier League’s best players, and recognised by the league as such.
James Ward-Prowse, England international and revered dead ball specialist, is one of eight aces at the top of the pack, nominated for the league’s coveted player of the season award.
The 27-year-old, listed alongside Mohamed Salah, Heung-min Son, Kevin De Bruyne and more is the only star to not come from a top-seven club – testament to the season he has had.
“(It’s) a massive honour, it was a little bit strange reading it at first,” Ward-Prowse admitted to the Daily Echo. “I thought ‘really?’
James Ward-Prowse and son at full-time on Tuesday (Pic: Stuart Martin)
“I’m always trying to keep myself grounded and to have that nomination is crazy, something to be proud of. It’s great to be recognised in that respect, very, very special.
“At the start of the season you always sit down and look at what you want to achieve, try and improve on your stats from last year, concentrate and try to improve as many facets of your game.
“I think I have definitely done that this year so yeah, but I’m always looking at the team and the club’s perspective instead of personal ones – but it’s extremely special, for sure.”
Trying to improve on his stats from last year, the skipper says he targeted. He has done exactly that and in emphatic fashion.
Assisted by no fewer than four from direct free-kicks, Ward-Prowse has amassed a personal best nine Premier League goals this season. That total playing a big part in a clean sweep of three awards at the Saints presentation earlier this month.
James Ward-Prowse's last goal came in a brace during the 2-2 draw at Brighton (Pic: PA)
“Everybody has those personal targets and I would love to reach 10,” the skipper beamed. “I would rather win the game Sunday to make sure we finish on a high, but I’ll be after that 10th goal for sure.”
Saints’ supporters will hope to enjoy Ward-Prowse’s impact on their team for some time still to come, and despite interest from top clubs across England the four years left on his current deal will aid that.
But the club will need to take the next steps to persuade players like Ward-Prowse to continue their career at St Mary’s, despite the obvious commitment the academy graduate has.
A run of just one win in the last 11 matches has seen a second consecutive season fizzle out from the promising to the frustrating – and likely a back-to-back 15th-place finish.
“There is a lot of frustration for sure, we have not fulfilled what we could have fulfilled,” Ward-Prowse admitted.
Saints fans want to see improvement next season (Pic: Stuart Martin)
“And if you look at the Aston Villa game earlier in the season where we lost away (4-0), it was a bad day at the office and we have never really recovered from that.”
He continued: “We went from a position of looking up the table to making sure we stayed in the league. That is a really disappointing feeling to have.”
That disappointment was evident following the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool on Tuesday night, in the final home contest of the campaign.
For the players’ customary lap of appreciation, St Mary’s emptied to well under less than half full – although those that remained clap the group round.
#SaintsFC begin their lap of appreciation but there is not too many here to receive them. pic.twitter.com/MmML6ePr1q
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) May 17, 2022
“We know there is a lot of disappointment that we have not fulfilled the potential that we believe we could have,” he said.
“The main thing is that we learn from this as a club and as a team, and that we don’t sit here in a year and have the same conversation. That’s the frustrating thing, when you keep making the same mistakes.
“Now it’s about finding the level of consistency which separates the top teams from the lower teams, you might lose a game but then it’s about not picking up no points in the next three or four.”
As captain, and the shining example in a confidence-shot squad, Ward-Prowse has his role to play picking his teammates up and giving Saints’ impressive away support something positive to end on.
“I have to remind everybody of the good moments we have had this season, remind them that we can do it,” Ward-Prowse insisted.
James Ward-Prowse's message to #SaintsFC's U18s. 🏆💬 "I think it is a fantastic achievement from them. I have been close to winning the league when I was with the U18s and it is an incredible achievement. Hopefully they can go one step further tonight. pic.twitter.com/AGIm40QRkb
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) May 19, 2022
“We can play at a really good level and when we play well, not many teams can live with us. It’s making sure that everybody has got that motivation to finish the season as well as we can.”
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Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse on Tino Livramento injury and free-kick wizardry #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse admitted it was “stressful for everyone to see” Tino Livramento’s horrible injury at Brighton, but insisted it “spurred us on”.
The Saints captain struck twice to see his side come from two goals down to draw 2-2 at Amex Stadium, but Livramento’s exit overshadowed the occasion.
The 19-year-old was replaced by substitute Romain Perraud with a nasty knee injury after 36 minutes of the first-half, with manager Ralph Hasenhuttl admitting it looks "very, very serious".
Livramento had recovered from a knee meniscus injury already this year, missing five Premier League matches over six weeks and managing swelling ever since.
Read more
He could now be set to miss the rest of the season, if hospital scans confirm what is suspected. Ward-Prowse, who paid tribute to Livramento with a T gesture in celebration of his equaliser, tells how the youngster made a final impact even from the sidelines.
Tino Livramento required serious medical treatment during the draw at Burnley (Pic: PA)
“It was disappointing and stressful for everyone to see,” Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo, speaking after the match in Sussex.
“It’s not nice to see anyone go down injured like that. He’s obviously in our thoughts at the minute. I saw him post-game in the changing room, he’s upbeat now.
“It’s going to take him a little while to come around to it but it’s up to us now as a team and a club to get behind him and give him all the support he needs.”
@EddySFC re: your Tino Livramento question, been told that Thursday is likely earliest club will say anything as they like to let the injury settle before conclusive scans. That would leave press conference as likely route 👍 something could always come sooner though, ofc
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) April 25, 2022
He continued: “The rivalries between all the teams are high but when someone’s injured it’s great to see all the players and the fans from Brighton giving him the respect and applause he deserves. A nice moment in a way and hopefully now we can all get behind him.
“I think it kind of spurred us on in a way, he was in our minds from that moment on and it gave us a kick that we needed. Obviously it’s an unfortunate injury for him and we wish him all the best. It was a tough moment that put a dampener on the first half and spurred us on.”
Ward-Prowse took himself to within four of David Beckham’s free-kick record (18) with his special effort in added time of the first-half, after Livramento’s substitution.
James Ward-Prowse scores his fourth free-kick of the season (Pic: PA)
It was a different strike to ones he had converted at Crystal Palace, Wolves and Leeds United earlier this campaign. This deft stroke went low and off goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s far post to evade detection.
“The more you score, the more predictable it becomes,” he admitted. “You have to make sure you’re able to show some variation and do something surprising and thankfully I caught him off guard today.”
Ward-Prowse reached a personal best total of nine goals in a single Premier League season with his second, converting an Oriol Romeu backheel from the edge of the area.
“I think I had 10 goals at the start of the season as my sort of benchmark so one more to go in the league but more importantly it’s contributing to some good results and that’s the main thing.”
Saints had to show a reaction from their dismal 2-0 defeat at Burnley on Thursday, which left travelling fans as bemused as they were frustrated.
“That’s the basic thing you need as a player and as a team: to show that you can compete and fight for every ball,” Ward-Prowse explained. “I think the lads we had on the pitch today showed that. A real positive step considering the result we had in midweek.
“I think it was important in to not lose the game. The game was stretched, we wanted to go for a winner but away at Brighton I think it’s a good point.”
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Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse describes pride while playing for England #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse described walking out for England as “the best feeling you can have as a player” as he expressed joy for clubmates Kyle Walker-Peters and Fraser Forster after call-ups.
The Saints captain featured from the start for Gareth Southgate’s side during the 3-0 win over Ivory Coast at Wembley Stadium, unsurprisingly on set-piece duty for the Three Lions too.
It was the 27-year-old’s 10th cap for his country, while there was caps one and two for the impressive Walker-Peters during the same camp – including a strong start to his career versus Switzerland.
Kyle Walker-Peters has won on both of his England appearances (Pic: PA)
The three England lads returned to Saints and started for Ralph Hasenhuttl in the 1-1 draw at Leeds United’s Elland Road, but the skipper spared time to discuss their international week.
“Incredible, incredible. It’s the best feeling you can have as a player,” Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo. “To walk out and represent the country was incredible.
“And to be around those sorts of players and see up close how good these players are really inspires you to keep on striving to be in that environment on a more regular basis.
“So yeah, a really positive week and I enjoyed it thoroughly. It’s great to see your clubmates get their opportunity as well.”
James Ward-Prowse in England training (Pic: PA)
While Forster did not make an appearance for Southgate, with Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope both completing 90 minutes, it was a surprise return for the giant anyway.
Close friend of Ward-Prowse, Forster, returned to the England fold for the first time since 2017. His last cap came from an international friendly with Australia one year earlier.
Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale and West Brom’s Sam Johnstone both withdrew from Southgate’s squad to afford Forster the late opportunity.
“I think Kyle has thoroughly deserved it - he’s shown great consistency and quality this year so I’m absolutely delighted for him,” Ward-Prowse added.
“And of course to see big Fras up there was great. He’s my best mate, I know he’s been through some difficult times and a little bit of frustration not playing as much but you can see the confidence and the happiness that it’s given him.
Fraser Forster made a return to the England setup for the first time in five years (Pic: PA)
“And he made some great saves versus Leeds to keep us in the game as well.”
The England group will next meet up for a busy schedule of four UEFA Nations League matches across 10 days at the start of June, following the conclusion of the football season.
Ward-Prowse and Walker-Peters will hope to return with the group, while Forster will likely have to wait on the status of those goalkeepers ahead of him if he is to land another shock call-up.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse has warning for Southampton despite ‘maturity’ #SAINTSFC
SAINTS star James Ward-Prowse has insisted his side must not “become dependent” on his free-kick goals, after the captain’s stunning effort rescued a point at Leeds United.
The 27-year-old scored his 13th direct free-kick in the Premier League to equalise shortly following the break, after Jack Harrison’s opener in the 1-1 draw at Elland Road.
Ward-Prowse moved within five of England icon David Beckham’s Premier League record, after the former Manchester United set-piece specialist netted 18.
The effort versus Leeds was Ward-Prowse’s third of the season, after scoring from range at Crystal Palace and Wolves. They add to his total of seven goals in 28 matches this campaign.
James Ward-Prowse struck past Illan Meslier in the draw at Leeds United (Pic: PA)
“Expecting it? No. I feel very confident in my ability, routine, and practices I’ve done over the years,” Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo, speaking after the clash.
We've run out of words 🤯 pic.twitter.com/lf9UxkdIhB
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) April 2, 2022
“It’s more about composing myself and allowing myself to concentrate on the technique. When it was awarded I felt confident in my ability and thankfully it came off.
“I think it is a good weapon to have but we don’t want to become dependent on it. But I think it is a good strategy for us to have. The more free-kicks we win around the edge of the box, the better."
Ward-Prowse is just one strike from equalling his best goals total in one Premier League season, after he scored eight last term – before missing out on the European Championship with the Three Lions.
James Ward-Prowse on England duty last week (Pic: PA)
“Sitting down at the start of the season, I like to make targets,” he added. “And for a midfielder to get maybe 10 goals a season is a good return, it’s a good contribution to the team.
“So of course, it would be nice to reach those targets and keep improving year on year. But I’d sacrifice that if it means we can break into the top 10 and finish the season well.”
The point at Leeds stopped a rot of three consecutive league defeats for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side, after losses at St Mary’s to both Newcastle and relegation-threatened Watford.
It keeps Saints within one point of ninth-place in the table, as the Austrian boss targets a first top-half finish of his tenure.
“It feels like a new chapter in the season for us, coming off the international break,” Ward-Prowse insisted.
Saints ended a run of four defeats in all competitions (Pic: PA)
“Nine games before today to finish strong and reach that goal of finishing in the top 10. We came to a really hostile atmosphere, the fans make it an incredible place to play a game of football.
“We rode our luck a little bit in the first half but we felt we were in the game at half-time and it was just a case of getting that chance and putting it away in the second half.”
He continued: “That’s the maturity that we’ve gained this season. Coming here last season we lost 3-0 and we didn’t really manage the game well.
“To come away to a tough place and be a goal down, get back in it and not give any more points away I think was really important. I think it’s a good point when we look back at the end of the season and a good foundation now to go into the next few games.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals Rickie Lambert helped him perfect free-kick craft #SAINTSFC
SAINTS skipper James Ward-Prowse revealed how former teammate Rickie Lambert helped teach him his world-renowned free-kicks.
Ward-Prowse made his 10th appearance for the senior England team in a 3-0 victory over Ivory Coast at Wembley on Tuesday.
He was placed on set-piece duty before being substituted after 80 minutes in place of Conor Gallagher.
But, speaking to talkSPORT ahead of the contest in the capital, Ward-Prowse revealed how ex-Saints striker Lambert had a huge impact on his highly-effective technique.
The 27-year-old said: “I had to really go away and practice and try and perfect the dead-ball situations and being in the same squad as Rickie Lambert, who better to teach me?
“He had a fantastic record of free-kicks and I learnt a lot from him.
“I remember watching him practicing his free-kicks and I would loiter near him to be hopefully be asked to take one, or have that opportunity.
“So, to be practicing with him was great and to see how easy it made it look was pretty special.
“It was quite a nice moment to share the pitch with a Southampton legend showing me the way he takes free-kicks.”
Former England international Lambert played 235 games for Saints in total, scoring 117 goals and registering 64 assists.
Meanwhile, Kyle Walker-Peters came off the bench for the Three Lions on Tuesday to win his second senior cap.
He replaced Arsenal’s Ben White at half-time during the victory for Gareth Southgate’s side.
Fraser Forster, who was called into the squad as a late replacement for Sam Johnstone, was an unused substitute.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse set to re-ignite Zaha ‘rivalry’ and wants best mate Forster with him #SAINTSFC #CRYFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse is set to face long-time footballing foe, Wilfried Zaha, if named to start by Gareth Southgate tomorrow, joking: “It’s a great rivalry.”
The Saints skipper and Crystal Palace forward have had a number of run-ins on the pitch during their Premier League battles – including helping Zaha get himself sent off at St Mary’s.
The 29-year-old former England international, who switched allegiances to Ivory Coast in 2017, played 85 minutes of their last-minute defeat in France on Friday.
Zaha has 21 caps for his country, scoring five goals, and could make a return to the Wembley Stadium pitch in the international friendly on Tuesday March, 29.
Ivorian international Wilfried Zaha (Pic: PA)
Ward-Prowse, who was England under-21s captain under Southgate, is set to win his 10th senior cap in the Three Lions’ first match against non-European opposition since November 2018.
“I think it’s a good way of helping us prepare for the tournament and, yeah, of course, I mean, it’s a great rivalry, I suppose,” Ward-Prowse said with a laugh.
“But I have the utmost respect for him. He’s a fantastic player and he’s somebody that we have to be wary of. I think it’ll be an exciting game. To be playing a different nation is definitely exciting.”
Southgate is planning changes against the Ivorians, which could mean goalkeeper Fraser Forster makes his first England appearance since May 2016.
Fraser Forster in England training (Pic: PA)
Injuries to stoppers Aaron Ramsdale and Sam Johnstone led to the 34-year-old’s surprise return to the international set-up.
Ward-Prowse is delighted for his close friend after coming through adversity to impress between the sticks for Saints this season.
“He’s obviously been on a difficult journey in the last few years,” the 27-year-old added. "He’s my best mate and I’m absolutely delighted for him.
"He’s worked incredibly hard as well. He’s had some difficult moments along his footballing journey but he’s shown a lot of persistence, and his quality as well.
“You can see the presence that he holds on the pitch and he gives everybody that confidence. I’m absolutely delighted for him and hopefully he can make the most of his opportunity this week.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse to use England experience for Southampton benefit #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse insists he learns a lot just by being around the England international stars and it is an opportunity he must “not let pass by”, ahead of a potential 10th cap.
The 27-year-old Saints captain has been praised this season by manager Ralph Hasenhuttl, who says the midfielder is always trying to improve his game and willing to learn.
His mental and physical strength have seen Ward-Prowse bounce back on an international stage after missing last year’s history-making European Championship run.
Ward-Prowse, who has scored 14 Premier League goals since the start of the 2020-21 campaign, is equally trying to impress boss Gareth Southgate – and book a flight to the 2022 Qatar World Cup in November.
James Ward-Prowse scores his second goal for England (Pic: PA)
The England squad is full of serial winners and regular European qualifiers – something he wants to bring back to Saints.
“I always come away from the England squad with a lot of respect for those in it and always feel like I’ve gained a lot being around those players,” he told the Daily Echo.
“It’s extremely special. I want to make the most of that opportunity, not let it pass me by, make the most of it and come back a more experienced player.”
Ward-Prowse has already been handed nine appearances for the Three Lions by Southgate, and has now been selected in each of his last three international squads.
England manager Gareth Southgate (Pic: PA)
He has registered two goals for his country, coming versus San Marino and Andorra in 2021.
“To be in and around that squad is extremely special,” the Saints academy graduate added.
“And I’m looking to make sure I can maximise as much of the opportunity as I can and take every ounce of the experience I can to develop my game.”
Ward-Prowse was the sole Saints star in the England squad at the time it was initially announced – but not any more.
Club ✔️Country ✔️#threelions pic.twitter.com/5tiTsOZx98
— England (@England) March 23, 2022
Kyle Walker-Peters was given a first ever call-up when defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold and Reece James pulled out of the squad through injury. The 24-year-old learned of this ahead of the FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.
Kyle Walker-Peters is the only right-back in the squad and could be set for a full England debut (Pic: Stuart Martin)
A further late switch was made with Sam Johnstone next to depart the squad, leaving a space for 34-year-old Fraser Forster to return to the international stage for the first time in nearly six years.
Ward-Prowse and his St Mary’s teammates could be involved at Wembley Stadium tomorrow, during the international friendly match with Switzerland (5:30PM).
Southgate’s side will then welcome Ivory Coast to the home of English football on Tuesday, March 29 for a nighttime (7:45PM) kick-off.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse looks for positive end to Southampton season despite crashing out of FA Cup #SAINTSFC
SAINTS skipper James Ward-Prowse has insisted “we can still make the season a very positive one” following his side’s exit in the FA Cup quarter-final.
The 27-year-old midfielder travels to join up with Gareth Southgate’s England squad off the back of a four-match losing streak with the St Mary’s outfit.
Manchester City denied Ralph Hasenhuttl and his charges a second consecutive Wembley Stadium trip with a 4-1 victory last weekend, despite running a close contest for over an hour.
Prior to that, Premier League defeats to Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Watford had put a big dent in the hopes of a top-half finish for the first time under the Austrian boss.
Ralph Hasenhuttl faces a difficult task to land a top-half finish (Pic: Stuart Martin)
All momentum of a seven-match unbeaten run was cut short with a humiliating 4-0 hammering at Villa Park, in which former star Danny Ings got on the scoresheet in his first meeting with Saints since leaving last summer.
However, Ward-Prowse insists he is still ambitious of ending the season strong.
Speaking to the Daily Echo, following the FA Cup exit, he said: “I think prior to the day we knew the position we were in - quarter-final of the FA Cup and 11th in the league.
“Unfortunately, the cup competition has come to an end but we’re still 11th.
“We still have a good handful of games to play and points to win and we can still make the season a very positive one and finish inside that top 10.”
James Ward-Prowse is without a Premier League goal in over two months (Pic: PA)
Nine Premier League matches remain for Saints to table a first top-half finish of Hasenhuttl's tenure, with Leicester City and Steven Gerrard's Villans one point ahead.
Saints could have set themselves up for a Wembley date with Liverpool in the FA Cup semi-final, but for a second-half performance of real quality and intent from Pep Guardiola’s City.
Kevin De Bruyne capitalised on a Mohammed Salisu error to bury a penalty and restore the English champions’ lead, before substitutes Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez made Che Adams’ close-range miss pay with goals of their own.
City had not found a way to defeat Hasenhuttl’s side in the Premier League this campaign, with 0-0 and 1-1 draws respectively, but were able to turn it on for the big moment.
Kyle Walker-Peters scored in the 1-1 draw between the two sides in January (Pic: Stuart Martin)
“It’s disappointing to lose in the way that we did,” Ward-Prowse admitted.
“I think we showed the strength that we’ve got against the ball and created some good chances ourselves.
“Against the big teams, you have to be solid, you’ve got to have a bit of luck and you can’t give too much away either. And in the end we gave away too much and they punished us.”
He added: “It’s a combination of a few things. When you create chances you have to take them - especially against the top teams.
“It (the Che Adams chance at 2-1) was a key moment in the game.
“Obviously the penalty changed the game completely but then we’ve had a chance straight after to hopefully get back into it.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse keen to recreate Saints trophy history after bumping into legends #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse said it would be an “incredible achievement” for Saints to win silverware – having once bumped into the man who delivered major honours to The Dell.
The Saints midfielder confirmed how he was once having dinner in a pub in the New Forest when he met 1976 FA Cup-winning manager Lawrie McMenemy, as well as former Saints striker Kevin Keegan.
England international Ward-Prowse had a chat with the iconic duo – and admitted it would be great for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s troops to recreate the events of McMenemy’s famous side.
Quizzed on what it was like to bump into both McMenemy and Keegan, the latter having signed for Saints in 1980 after they won the cup, Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo: “It was strange. I think when you go out for dinner, you don’t really expect to bump into anyone.
“To see two icons and two legends like that, sat there, it was quite daunting in a way but pretty special at the same time. It was just a special moment in time.
“I think someone like Lawrie is obviously an incredible icon for this club and achieved so much.
“Even though it was before I was born, you see the images and the footage from then.
“It would be great to recreate that now and to put our names down in history and hopefully give the fans something to cheer about in the midst of what has been a really, really difficult few years for everybody.”
Saints continue their quest in the FA Cup on Saturday, when they host Championship Coventry City at St Mary’s in the fourth round (3pm).
Asked how much sealing silverware would mean to him, having been with Saints since the age of eight, Ward-Prowse replied: “Yeah, it would be an incredible achievement for sure, to win silverware with this club.
“They have given so much to me and my career in allowing me to fulfil my childhood dream, it would be great to reward the club back in a way of winning silverware.”
Hasenhuttl’s side made the last four of the FA Cup last campaign, before exiting at Wembley in a tame 1-0 defeat to eventual winners Leicester City.
“I think last season we were disappointed because the semi-final just seemed to peter out and we didn’t really, you know, give it a proper go,” said Ward-Prowse.
“We came off the pitch feeling like we could have given more and we don’t want that feeling to happen again.
“We want to make sure we make amends for that and I feel as though we’ve got a good opportunity to do so.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Pep Guardiola labels James Ward-Prowse as ‘best free-kick taker in the world’ #MCFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse can add another big name to his fan club – with Pep Guardiola the latest Premier League manager to claim that the Saints skipper is the best in the world at free-kicks.
In his pre-match presser ahead of the game with Saints, Manchester City’s manager enthused about the ability of the Saints academy graduate, believing that the midfielder does not get enough credit for the rest of his game, stating that people focus too much on his set-piece quality.
The former Barcelona and Bayern Manager also called upon the wider footballing world to “pay more attention” to the England International.
Guardiola told press: “He is the best taker I have ever seen, right now in the world. No player is a better taker than Ward-Prowse.
“He is so good, maybe we miss a little bit this quality of a football player.
“A guy who adapts in the same position, he's a team player, great quality without the ball, with the ball, understanding the game.
“Set pieces and corners is exceptional. We need to pay more attention.”
Whilst Ward-Prowse is garnering plaudits for his free-kicks, the Saints captain is not just a free-kick specialist.
No other player has taken more corners than Ward-Prowse in the last three seasons, whilst his record from the spot is not too shabby either – only missing one of his last seven attempts in the Premier League.
In a game where Saints are expected to be on the back foot, making the most of their opportunities at set-pieces could prove vital, indicating Ward-Prowse may have a big role to play for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men.
Despite City rolling into town whilst on a streak of 12 Premier League wins, Guardiola is anticipating a tough game at St Mary’s.
“The quality they have, the exceptional manager,” continued Guardiola.
“One of the best in the league by far. Always was a tough game, the players know it. An incredible challenge tomorrow.”
The last two fixtures between the sides at St Mary’s have ended 1-0 – with both games being won with goals in the 16th minute. Their last encounter on the south coast was decided by Raheem Sterling in December 2020, whilst Che Adams’ early winner was the difference in their July 2020 meeting.
Stats wise, Guardiola represents the toughest opponent Hasenhuttl has faced, with the Austrian only beating the Spaniard once in nine meetings.
Guardiola has won five out of the seven contests between the pair in the Premier League, whilst Guardiola’s Bayern Munich side defeated Hasenhuttl’s Red Bull Leipzig side twice in the Bundesliga.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals difficulty in playing before empty stands #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse admitted he found behind-closed-doors games “difficult to get used to with the lack of atmosphere” as Saints prepare for a first return to empty stadia this campaign.
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side travel to Swansea City in the FA Cup third round tomorrow (5.30pm) and, under Welsh Government guidelines, no tickets are being sold for the Premier League versus Championship clash.
Football fans and players alike rejoiced a mass return to the terraces when Brentford packed out their stadium and hosted Arsenal on a Friday night back in August.
However, swift and more extreme action taken on the spread of coronavirus by Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has meant Welsh sides will again play their games behind closed doors.
James Ward-Prowse has scored in each of his last two away matches (Pic: PA)
And asked if it will be disappointing to again step out onto the pitch to relative silence, the Saints captain told the Daily Echo: “Yeah, maybe.
“I think that was the one thing that was difficult to get used to at the start was the lack of atmosphere.”
He continued: “But once you’re in the game and in the moment you soon forget about it and have to concentrate on your job so we will see, it’s an ever changing time and at the minute we don’t know.”
Russell Martin’s second division outfit have not played a competitive fixture for almost a month due to COVID postponements.
Swansea manager Russell Martin (Pic: PA)
The last time they ran out was a 4-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest on December 11 – a result that made it three successive defeats for the south Wales side.
Martin has admitted since that he will have to manage his squad accordingly for the FA Cup match, with most having been decimated by positive tests or isolations that will have struck their fitness levels.
Meanwhile, Saints also saw disruption with winnable St Mary’s fixtures against Brentford and Newcastle both postponed due to cases in the opposition camp.
“The situation with COVID is very difficult,” Ward-Prowse added. “It’s changing all the time, day-to-day.
Saints will be without defender Kyle Walker-Peters following a positive COVID test (Pic: Stuart Martin)
“We don’t know what restrictions are going to be in place or what’s coming next.
“All we can do is control what we know we can control and that’s adhering to the protocols and making sure that everybody is safe within our bubble, and to ensure that we have as many fit players ready and available to play.
“Fans or no fans, we are used to it both ways.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse gives New Year’s resolution and reflects on 2021 #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse has revealed that his footballing New Year’s resolution is simply to add more goals to his game, despite “a lot on defensive work and the pressing,” in Saints’ current system.
The academy graduate and club captain has scored in three successive Premier League matches for the first time since March 2019, with the third coming against Tottenham Hotspur on both occasions.
England international Ward-Prowse completed the treble with a strike from each of a trademark free-kick, a penalty and his first of the campaign from open play.
The 27-year-old brought his total for the season up to five with a stunning half-volley in the 1-1 draw with Spurs – which makes him just three off his best total (eight, in 2020-21) at the halfway point.
Read more
“I think to score more goals,” Ward-Prowse responded, when asked by the Daily Echo what he wants to bring in 2022.
James Ward-Prowse opens the scoring versus Tottenham Hotspur (Pic: PA)
“In our system and our shape there’s a lot on defensive work and the pressing side of the game.
“But I think that I’ve always wanted to score more goals, and of course the free-kicks are brilliant, but I feel I can contribute more goals from open play and have the buzz to get into the box more and contribute that way.”
No one strikes them sweeter than @Prowsey16 💥pic.twitter.com/ftqDBuCBXq
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 28, 2021
Ward-Prowse’s first goal from open play this season came while playing in a 5-3-2 formation, perhaps feeling that the defensive solidity offered by the extra man allowed him the license to explore.
That being said, it also came from a Mohammed Salisu throw-in – so perhaps any effect extrapolated from that switch would be exaggerated.
For Ward-Prowse on an individual level, 2021 has been a year of high highs and lower lows.
James Ward-Prowse scored a rebound of his penalty in Andorra (Pic: PA)
The midfielder fully stamped his reputation as one of the most dangerous free-kick takers the Premier League has seen, posted his best numbers in goals and assists and was awarded a brand-new contract at St Mary’s that secures his and his family’s future until at least 2026.
He received a ninth England cap under manager Gareth Southgate and lifted his international account to two, with a notch in Andorra. His stock has probably been as high as it’s ever been.
But in the same breath, missing out on what became an historic European Championships run – in our own country – with the Three Lions by the skin of his teeth leaves a scar unprecedented in Ward-Prowse’s career.
England reached a first international final since 1966, before penalty defeat to Italy at Wembley (Pic: PA)
The mental challenge then became a physical one, with the ace battling a rare knee injury and illness to maintain his record of playing every Premier League minute for over two seasons. That run ended with only his second league red card at Stamford Bridge.
Good will from Southgate, putting his arm around Ward-Prowse and selecting him for the October England squad despite the downturn in form was what, no doubt, helped pull him from that slump.
James Ward-Prowse has kept himself within touch of the England reckoning (Pic: PA)
“I think a really successful and exciting year,” Ward-Prowse said, reflecting on his 2021.
“We have some very successful moments but equally some tough challenges along the way, that’s what it is all about.”
Hole in one ⛳️How much ❤️ for @Prowsey16? pic.twitter.com/QSljcVBtEW
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 29, 2021
He continued: “Constant up and downs and the challenges that come with it – I’ve enjoyed every minute and learnt a lot along the way.
“It’s given me more hunger for the next year to be better and get through those challenges even more.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse on Southampton dropping points from winning position #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse admits he’s “not too sure” why Saints are often unable to maintain a lead during the second-half of matches but adds: “It could be a mentality thing.”
Saints have now dropped a league-high 16 points from winning positions this season – and have only picked up 17 from 17 matches altogether.
The tally means Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side sit 15th in the Premier League with a six-point gap on Burnley in the relegation zone, although the northern outfit have two games in hand.
But second-half performances have not just done their damage to the standings but often to the inspiration and morale of the St Mary’s and travelling support.
Asked about why it keeps happening, Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo: “I’m not too sure, it could just be a mentality thing.
“We’ve always gone into half-time predominantly with a good scoreline and it’s just about how we can develop that next stage of our game.
“A little bit of maturity and game management and if we can improve that by a little bit we will end up picking up more points and start climbing the table.”
Saints picked up three points in December with draws against Leicester, Brighton and most recently Crystal Palace but were leading in the second-half of all of them.
To add, Norwich completed their comeback during the second-half to snatch three points from Saints – despite Che Adams opening early – while Burnley, Manchester United and Everton all came from behind to secure their results against Saints.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals the return of Stuart Armstrong is massive #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse has claimed that “even before he kicked a ball in training,” Stuart Armstrong returning to Saints’ sessions at Staplewood is “a massive boost”.
The Scottish international has only managed to make four Premier League games all season for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side, after a calf injury that just continued to get worse and worse.
He’s back in training with the St Mary’s outfit now, though, and supporters could feel confident about breaking the run of six without victory that Saints are currently on.
That’s because the difference in Premier League records with and without Armstrong is both remarkable and fascinating.
Read more
This season, in the games in which Armstrong hasn’t featured Saints have drawn six and lost seven, with no wins. With the 29-year-old featuring, Saints have won three and drawn four with zero losses.
Stuart Armstrong didn't appear for Saints this campaign until the Leeds clash in mid-October (Pic: Stuart Martin)
Saints have failed to win any Premier League game without the Scottish talisman since December 2019.
"No, he hasn't, (played a lot of football this campaign),” admitted Ward-Prowse. “He has been a huge miss for us with his game understanding and his quality on the ball, it is really high.”
"He is a great lad and when you get to play with one of your best mates, it is a real pleasure and a real boost for the whole team.
"Him coming back into the fold will be a massive boost for everyone, even before he has kicked a ball in training, to see him back out on the pitch will be huge.”
Stuart Armstrong is four matches off his 100th Premier League appearance (Pic: Stuart Martin)
The recent COVID-induced break may have come at a favourable time for Saints, with Armstrong not the only player who has returned to training since they were due to face Brentford.
Fraser Forster, Adam Armstrong and Che Adams have all also made returns.
And Ward-Prowse was asked how important it could be to get, in particular, the two Scotsmen back.
"Yeah, it is huge,” the skipper insisted. “Both of those players are immensely important to us and the way that we play, and you want your best players fit for every game, and when they are not, it is disappointing.
Che Adams scored all three of his 21-22 Premier League goals in the last six (Pic: PA)
"But these things happen in football and injuries occur, but their returns will be a huge boost for us, for sure.”
He continued: “We are in an ever-changing world and we don't know what is going to happen from one day to the next.
"It is not just in football, but across the world in all aspects of lives where challenges are put there, and we have to do our best to continue playing football, and if we can do that safely, then why not.
"But as soon as health and concerns around it are there, then obviously it has to be reviewed.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse wants to meet David Beckham if he beats free-kick record #SAINTSFC #MUFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse reveals that he has never actually met inspiration David Beckham amid talk of his free-kick record but adds: “If the stipulation is I have to beat the record to meet him then I’ll be looking to do that as soon as I can.”
The former England great leads the way for most direct free-kicks scored in Premier League history, with 18, while Saints’ skipper edged one closer onto 11 at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park last week.
His sumptuous effort into the top-left of Jack Butland’s goal was his first since February, in his 284th Premier League appearance.
Beckham reached his total in just 265, but 27-year-old Ward-Prowse now has the longevity to take it all the way.
Read more
And despite being in the Premier League spotlight for over half-a-decade, and becoming a full England international under Gareth Southgate, Ward-Prowse still has not spoken to the man who gave him inspiration.
David Beckham's 18 is the most direct free-kicks scored in Premier League history (Pic: PA)
“No I haven’t yet, no,” he admitted to the Daily Echo, before being disappointed that the ex-Manchester United talisman didn’t emerge around the corner as we spoke.
“This is the moment where I’m looking to see if he appears,” Ward-Prowse joked. “I’ve had a couple interviews like that before, but no I haven’t met him.
“If there’s a stipulation that I have to beat his record in order to meet him then I’ll be looking to do that as soon as I can.
“He’s an absolute legend, a great of the game, a huge role model and inspiration for me even now – and I’m 27.
James Ward-Prowse's free-kick at Crystal Palace was his 11th in the Premier League (Pic: PA)
“He’s obviously a legend in my eyes and I’m hopefully going to get his record, but we shall see.”
Ward-Prowse’s most recent free-kick was his third goal of the season, with the other two coming from the penalty spot during the 2-2 draw with Newcastle and an ill-fated equaliser at Stamford Bridge.
Six-time Premier League winner David Beckham scored 62 goals in the division (Pic: PA)
The Saints academy graduate now openly admits that he is always wanting for more chances to close down the gap on his idol, and not just for the opportunity to finally converse with him.
He added: “Yeah that’s it, the one against Palace was the first one I’ve had in a real exciting area of the pitch so yeah to get the first one of the season was nice and hopefully more to come.
James Ward-Prowse is an absolute problem from set pieces 🔥It's another picture perfect free-kick from the Southampton man 😍 pic.twitter.com/7vDPHArtvS
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) December 15, 2021
“As soon as it was awarded I got that butterfly feeling, I knew it was a good opportunity.
“That actually is a thing, sometimes you strike it so well you just feel so confident that it’s going to fly in and it was great to get my first one of the season, like you said, get that up and running now.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse loves crowd banter and Zaha rivalry #SAINTSFC #CRYFC
RUN-INS with the likes of Wilfried Zaha are “all part of the game” says James Ward-Prowse, who insists he loves getting banter from the opposition supporters.
The 27-year-old England international was on the receiving end of choruses of jeers and boos at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park, but struck back in the finest possible way.
Ward-Prowse planted an inch-perfect free-kick past former international teammate Jack Butland to equalise for Saints after Zaha had put the home side ahead.
And it was a welcomed intervention, with it seeming as though former friend and foe Zaha was going to have the last laugh over his Saints rival.
The two have come to blows in meetings between the teams before, including Zaha getting himself two consecutive yellow cards at St Mary’s, in January 2019, for an inflamed reaction to Ward-Prowse and the referee.
The ex-Manchester United man also seemingly poked Saints’ skipper in the eye a year later but escaped punishment.
“No it’s great, it’s all part of the game (the crowd getting on his back),” Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo.
“Me and Wilfried Zaha know each other from the England under-21s and have had a few run-ins in games but that’s all part of it.
“All the crowd banter and things like that is great, it’s what makes it fun for me and it’s great to play in that sort of atmosphere, it gives it more of an edge and it’s enjoyable.”
Ward-Prowse was critisiced by some after the January 2019 incident for celebrating the referee’s decision to dish out the red card to Palace key-man Zaha.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals excitement on return of Will Smallbone after tough time #SAINTSFC
CAPTAIN James Ward-Prowse declared himself "absolutely delighted" to see Will Smallbone back in Premier League action, admitting: "He went through such a tough time."
Smallbone, who rose up through Saints' academy, made his first top-flight start in 11 months in Wednesday night's contest at Crystal Palace.
The 21-year-old, whose only other appearance this season came in the EFL Cup at Chelsea in October, spent a lengthy spell on the sidelines after rupturing his ACL in a game at Leicester in January.
In a recent interview, Smallbone explained how his time away from the game also saw him dealing with a separate issue, as he lost all his hair due to alopecia.
The Republic of Ireland international has now recovered from his serious knee problem and featured for 70 minutes in an advanced midfield role in the 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park.
Discussing the return of his teammate, Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo: "It's huge. I’m absolutely delighted for Will because he went through such a tough time with his injury.
"It's great to see him back. I’ve seen first-hand the journey he’s been on and the effort he’s put in to get where he is.
"He’s very similar to me in the way his journey has gone, playing in different positions and stuff like that so it’s great to see where he’s gone and we will be there to facilitate it."
Asked for his assessment of Smallbone's performance against Crystal Palace, boss Ralph Hasenhuttl added: "It is absolutely amazing what he did.
"I am very happy for him because after such a long time, I must say I have worked very good with him.
"He is fitter than before. He was coming back after one year very, very solid fitness with a good drive on the pitch.
"The last two weeks in training you couldn't deny that he is one of the best on the pitch and you have to give him a chance.
"It is also a signal for all the other players that are not playing at the moment.
"They see what you can do when you work hard, when you train well, everybody gets a chance and this is what they have to do. Every day, not only once.
"Then you deserve to play. This is what he did and I think he did it okay."
Saints are next due in action at West Ham United on Boxing Day (3pm).
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl heaps praise on James Ward-Prowse’s sublime free-kick at Crystal Palace #SAINTSFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl hailed the set-piece expertise of James Ward-Prowse after he struck in the 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace and added: “It is such a good weapon we have.”
Wilfried Zaha put the Eagles ahead early on and the hosts appeared in control but the Saints skipper was on hand to turn the game on its head with a superb 32nd-minute equaliser.
Ward-Prowse curled his effort over the wall and into the top corner from 25 yards to score directly from a free-kick for the 11th time in the Premier League, putting him joint-third on the all-time list.
It sparked the visitors into life at Selhurst Park and Armando Broja drilled them ahead minutes later.
But Saints had to settle for a point after Jordan Ayew levelled for Palace midway through the second half.
Hasenhuttl said of the free-kick: “It helps massively because it was suddenly very calm in the ground here and our fans woke up.
“This is what you need in that moment. It was fantastic how our fans were fighting with us and supporting us until the end. It is always a pleasure to have them with us and to give everything we can give them.
“For Prowsey, it was a good moment to show his quality and then the belief was there to play how we wanted to play.
“We had massive opportunities to score more and, yeah, second half I saw a game from both teams fighting for everything.”
Despite a point in London, Saints remain six games without a win and Hasenhuttl admitted they need to try to earn more free-kicks in central areas to help their captain exploit his talent.
“It is such a good weapon we have to be more often in a situation where the opposition can foul us,” the Austrian said.
“I am very happy to have him in my squad and I am very happy he has this quality. We must give him more free-kicks in this position, I think.”
Palace boss Patrick Vieira admitted watching Ward-Prowse find the net from a free-kick was “painful” but acknowledged the England midfielder possesses the ability to cause problems.
He added: “It is painful but you have to recognise the quality of the player on set-pieces.
“When it is a corner or right free-kick, or central free-kick, we knew that it is one of the strengths of their team. He took his chance really well and in that situation you just have to congratulate the player.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl pays tribute to James Ward-Prowse ahead of 200th Premier League start #SAINTSFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse is set to make his 200th start in the Premier League for Saints as Ralph Hasenhuttl pays tribute to his skipper.
The 27-year-old midfielder has made 279 appearances in the Premier League, scoring 32 goals in that time while maturing from academy product to club captain.
Ward-Prowse played every minute of Hasenhuttl’s first two seasons as Saints manager, although that concurrent run was ended after he received a red card at Chelsea in October.
But to amass the volume of minutes that he has, whilst also making nine appearances for his country since his England debut in 2017, is no easy achievement.
Hasenhuttl has paid tribute to the star, ahead of Saints’ visit to Liverpool on Saturday.
He said: “Firstly, congrats, at his age 200 is quite massive I must say.
“We had a building up relationship I think, when I came here it took a while until he was part of the first XI.
“The things I demanded of him I spoke of very clearly I think and he also showed it relatively quick, what we expected of him.
“The rest of the story you know, you have seen the progress he has made for the last three years now.”
Although now 27, Ward-Prowse probably played his best football for Saints in the recent 2020-21 campaign – despite the team struggling.
He provided eight goals and eight assists to help the team survive, as well as cutting himself further a reputation as a set-piece specialist – the direct free-kicks, at least.
His form nearly afforded him a place at the European Championships in Gareth Southgate’s squad, but he was just pipped to the post leaving him to target next year’s winter World Cup in Qatar.
Hasenhuttl adds that he believes Ward-Prowse can continue to become a better player.
He said: “Finally, he is not at the end of his development I don’t think.
“What I like about this player is that when you show him something, criticise him for something, he immediately is able to fix it, to improve this part.
“This is very good behaviour for a player I think, he is always open minded, always willing to learn and this is never a disadvantage for your development when you have this character.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reflects on missed opportunity to play for national team England #SAINTSFC
SAINTS skipper James Ward-Prowse admits his regret at missing out on another international break with England, adding: “Any opportunity to represent your country has to be taken with the utmost respect.”
The 27-year-old midfielder was called up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the final two World Cup qualifiers, after he scored his second international goal against Andorra last time out. Despite missing three games in October through suspension, Southgate still showed faith to select him and the Three Lions went on to win 10-0 against San Marino – the match Ward-Prowse would likely have started.
But the Saints man wasn’t there after he was ruled out before the fixtures began through illness, which manager Ralph Hasenhuttl later confirmed just to be a "bug".
It meant Ward-Prowse missed a certain chance to add to his international goals account, as well keep himself at the forefront of Southgate’s mind ahead of the World Cup in Qatar next winter.
“Yeah I was disappointed,” Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo.
“You know when you get any opportunity to represent your country in your career it’s got to be taken with the utmost respect and speciality.
“It was unfortunate to miss out on it but it gave me a chance and a week to recover and get myself ready for this game (Norwich).”
Ward-Prowse reassured supporters: “I came through the game (at Norwich), I’m feeling well, I just need to find that consistency at the moment and that will come.”
It’s been a difficult, stop-start few months for the Three Lions international, after he made the preliminary squad for this year’s European Championship – with the final held at Wembley.
However, he was cut from the squad that took part and missed out on the historic run, before suffering a knee injury which disrupted his pre-season schedule.
He played through the start of the season still recovering from that, added to by also having "stomach issues" which impacted his fitness.
But Ward-Prowse still played every minute of the Premier League up until his sending off at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge – although he’s found it difficult to hit top gear that Saints’ supporters became accustomed to from his form last campaign.
With the latest setback coming during the November break, Ward-Prowse reflected on a difficult start to the campaign: “Yeah it has been, I’ve been very lucky in recent years to have consistency with no injuries or health issues and being available for every game. To start the season with a knee injury and the stomach issues, it’s hard to find the level of consistency, but these things happen. It’s about being adaptable in this game. Hopefully I can knuckle down and help the team.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl and James Ward-Prowse assess Saints’ young strike force #SAINTSFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl and James Ward-Prowse have both praised Saints’ strike force, which the boss says is “definitely” the best he’s had at the club when you also consider their ages.
Although Adam Armstrong and Armando Broja were both kept quiet during the glum 2-1 defeat at Norwich’s Carrow Road on Saturday, Che Adams hit his fifth goal in six matches for both club and country – with his early opener.
It rounded off a top week for him individually, after scoring two in two for Scotland to secure a home seeded World Cup playoff tie in 2022.
Chelsea loanee Broja had struck two in two starts before an ankle injury disrupted his flow while former Blackburn Rovers frontman Armstrong ended his barren run with the winner versus Aston Villa.
And speaking after the Canaries defeat, Ward-Prowse reflected on the only positive you could take, telling the Daily Echo: “Yeah, I think for any team wanting to do well you need strikers who score goals, and recently both Che and Arma have done that consistently for a while now.
“It’s up to us to provide for them now, and for Che as well in the week I think everyone involved with the club is proud to see him doing well for Scotland.
“It’s good to see him put the ball in the back of the net.”
With Adams still only 25-years-old, Armstrong a year younger and Broja only 20 – albeit only on loan at Saints – there is still room for them to grow and adapt to England’s top flight.
Fielding questions before the trip to Norfolk, Hasenhuttl was asked if the strike force is the best he’s had at Saints - in terms of age at least.
“Yes, definitely,” he responded. “Broja is very young, Nathan Tella (22) is very young, Arma is not old and Che is also not old.
“It’s a very young squad in general, and this is what we have tried to rebuild. We lost experienced players in (Ryan) Bertrand, (Jannik) Vestergaard, (Danny) Ings, and replaced them with young hungry lads who like to learn, and they like to get better.”
He added: “This is the only way we can go as a club.
“We know it takes time, especially scoring goals in the Premier League is the toughest job to do, but the guys have shown now that they are getting better and getting used to adapting to higher quality, and they are showing that they can score there.”
Armstrong went 680 minutes without a goal after his opener at Everton, and before his winner versus Villa. Adams himself also failed to score early on in his Saints career.
Hasenhuttl revealed how he believes you get strikers out of those barren runs, with experience of playing the position himself.
He insisted: “Never question them, never lose the trust in them. That is the most important thing.
“I was a striker myself and I know that its normal that you come sometimes into a situation where you don’t score, and things maybe get a little bit more difficult.
“When you score it is always easy, performances most of the time are very good, and you don’t think about it too much and score all the time because you automatically get into a position where you can score.
“My job is to bring them often into a position where they can score, and then they have to do it.
“This is how I can help them with the game plan I give the team, and then the rest is about the team helping them, to deliver balls, bring them into situations, and then they must take the chances.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals Southampton were not dominant in 2nd half against Norwich City #SAINTSFC
SKIPPER James Ward-Prowse has admitted that Saints “stopped being brave on the ball,” and “just got outperformed," as he tried to explain their second-half collapse at Norwich.
Che Adams had put Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side ahead inside three minutes but Teemu Pukki’s subsequent equaliser was allowed to stand significant despite a period of dominance.
And as has been seen too frequently from Saints, the second-half performance failed to match and was punished when Grant Hanley headed home from a set-piece late on to secure all three points.
The manner of the performance was a disappointment after the same thing has occurred during the 1-0 win over Aston Villa last time out – a very early goal and a second-half collapse, that time narrowly escaping with a well-battled three points.
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Despite looking comfortably on top against the side who were then bottom of the Premier League, only Adams’ one-on-one and a late wide-header from Theo Walcott were really clear sights at goal, aside from the opener.
James Ward-Prowse was among those outjumped by Scotland international Grant Hanley (Pic: PA)
And Ward-Prowse has looked to explain to supporters what he thinks went wrong.
Speaking to the Daily Echo, he admitted: “Yeah I think that we’re aware of that (the difference in halves). In the first-half we were so dominant to create the amount of chances we did.
“I think the only disappointing thing was that we conceded a goal, but not to be more than one goal in the game, to create the chances was great but we need to be more ruthless and clinical to put the game to bed.
Che Adams had got Saints off to a quick start at Carrow Road (Pic: PA)
“We just stopped doing what we were doing in the first half,” he continued, “we stopped being brave on the ball, stopped creating the chances.
“We just got outperformed a little bit, we could feel the emotion in the stands, energy in the stands with the new manager (Dean Smith) and the supporters were all backing him.
“We did well in the first-half but they kind of overpowered us and the fans definitely played a big part in spurring their team on.”
The result saw Norwich lift off the bottom of the table with two wins in two, as well as getting their new era under head coach Dean Smith off to a perfect start.
Saints were left dejected in an uninspiring second-half (Pic: PA)
Smith had made a change to his shape for the second-half as well as substituting Todd Cantwell for Josh Sargent – but Hasenhuttl’s changes did not have the same impact.
The Austrian boss had admitted before the game that it could be a slight advantage to Smith, having faced Saints in consecutive games and knowing what he would be up against.
Saints also saw late disruption to their plans with Nathan Redmond, Stuart Armstrong and Moussa Djenepo all ruled out within 24-48 hours of kick-off – but Ward-Prowse has said it’s still a disappointment.
“It’s hard to take for sure,” the 27-year-old told us, “with all due respect to Norwich this is a game that we came and wanted to win.
“We had a good plan and it went well in the first half. But yeah to not kill the game off in the first-half was disappointing.
“To concede a goal in the manner we did at the end was probably the most disappointing factor.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward-Prowse reveals Southampton B team players learned from a losing run #SAINTSFC
SAINTS academy graduate James Ward-Prowse insists the B team’s recent torrid spell of form will have been “a good learning experience for them.”
The young Saints, coached by Dave Horseman, have made a complete U-turn in their results with five consecutive victories and clean sheets.
Before that run, they hadn’t won a game in 18 dating all the way back to February, with a relegation to Premier League 2 Division Two in that time.
A bit more attention turned towards the run when the B team lost 3-0, 2-0 and 6-0 in consecutive ties before going 2-0 up against Birmingham inside 10 minutes – only to be 3-2 down by half-time and lose – back in September.
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The turnaround in form then coincided with the introduction of some more senior players into the side, including the likes of Will Smallbone, Nathan Tella, Yan Valery and talented 17-year-old Thierry Small.
Saints B's Kegs Chauke is reportedly attracting interest from Manchester City (Pic: PA)
And there’s no better example for the youngsters than Ward-Prowse, Saints captain, academy golden boy and England international, to show the rise that you can have at the club.
“Yeah of course it’s difficult (seeing them lose every week),” the 27-year-old admitted to the Daily Echo, “it’s difficult to see the academy and B team struggle.
Got some great pictures of #SaintsFC stars in their academy days. First, James Ward-Prowse playing against Barcelona. pic.twitter.com/Qiiw3PejR2
— Pick Southampton (@PickSouthampton) May 8, 2013
“But I think this is all part of the players’ journeys, you know you’re not always going to have wins every week.” Ward-Prowse added.
“It’s different when you get to the Premier League, if you do lose a lot of games it soon catches up with you.
Saints skipper James Ward-Prowse (Pic: Stuart Martin)
“But I think it was a good learning experience for them and I’m sure they have got the right people around them to get them through the spell and make sure they learn through this period of their careers.”
A number of Saints’ youngsters have caught the eye with top performances in the last five, including the aforementioned wing-back Small, central defender Dynel Simeu, attacker Kazeem Olaigbe and right-back Lewis Payne.
Two of the under-18s, who have been appearing in the under-23 competitions, in Dominic Ballard and Kamari Doyle, both 16, received call-ups to England under-17s.
Congratulations, Dom and Kamari! 👏The #SaintsFC youngsters have been selected for #YoungLions duty with England's U17s this month! 🦁
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) November 11, 2021
Since making his debut aged 16 during an EFL Cup clash with Crystal Palace in October 2011, Ward-Prowse has made 333 appearances for Saints. He had an England under-21 call-up in 2013.
James Ward-Prowse made his Saints debut over a decade ago (Pic: PA)
Gareth Southgate gave him his senior England bow in 2017, for whom he has played nine times since. Appointed as Saints’ club captain in 2020.
He’s come a long way from the days as a Saints scholar, secretly training at Portsmouth-local non-league side Havant & Waterlooville to get tougher.
James Ward-Prowse has scored twice for England (Pic: PA)
Ward-Prowse knows what it takes to ascend from a talented kid in the academy to the man, although you’d be surprised to hear that knowledge is yet to really be picked at.
“I haven’t had any of that this season yet no,” he remarked, “but obviously we have some of the lads train with us and be around us so that would be a good time to maybe have a chat with them and see how they’re doing.
“That’s a different challenge for them, when they come up and train with us, to be at a certain level, so there’s a good demand on them but that’s part of parcel of being a Premier League footballer.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories – James Ward-Prowse and Tino Livramento withdraw from England national teams #SAINTSFC
SAINTS skipper James Ward-Prowse has withdrawn from the England senior squad while Tino Livramento will also play no part in the under-21s upcoming games.
The club have confirmed both have been withdrawn from Three Lions camps for differing reasons.
Ward-Prowse will miss Gareth Southgate & co’s final two World Cup qualifying matches against Albania and San Marino due to illness.
Young full-back Livramento has been withdrawn from his respective squad due to an injury.
Both players took part and played a full 90 minutes against Aston Villa, during the 1-0 televised win on Friday evening, and left the pitch unscathed.
But the club’s statement reads: “Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse has been withdrawn from the latest England squad due to illness, while Tino Livramento has also been withdrawn from the England Under-21s squad due to injury.”
Livramento had been called up to both Lee Carsley's last two under-21 squads, while Ward-Prowse was looking to capitalise on his second successive call-up after missing the European Championships and September games.
The Saints captain scored the second England goal of his international career with the rebound of a penalty during victory in Andorra last time out.
Nathan Redmond was ruled out of the Premier League contest versus Aston Villa due to a positive Covid-19 test, only revealed by the club under an hour to kick-off, but it is unknown if Ward-Prowse's illness concern is related.
The 27-year-old midfielder had been battling through stomach concerns in the early stages of this season.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl discusses James Ward-Prowse’s Aston Villa bid #SAINTSFC #AVFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl has insisted “there was not for one minute fear that he would leave us” as James Ward-Prowse prepares to face the club he was subject to a bid from in Aston Villa.
The Daily Echo understands that Saints rejected a £25million bid for captain Ward-Prowse during a summer window which also saw three fellow seniors exit.
Ryan Bertrand, Danny Ings and Jannik Vestergaard all made transfer moves, with the latter and former going to Leicester City and Ings ending up at Villa.
But the skipper remained with Saints and signed a brand-new five-year contract to tie him to the club until 2026.
He was targeted by the Premier League side after netting eight goals in the league season, scoring on the international stage for England and becoming further renowned as a free-kick specialist.
Villa lost talisman Jack Grealish to Aston Villa in the summer for a £100million fee, and went on a spree of spending with the likes of Emi Buendia, Leon Bailey and Saints’ Ings signing.
But Hasenhuttl insists he was never worried that Ward-Prowse would join them.
He said: “There was not for one minute a fear that he would leave us, to be honest. I was relatively sure that he knows the role he has to play for this club.
“It’s more than losing a very good footballer, a free-kick expert, he’s a real model for our club and it’s always helpful when you have someone like that here.
“He’s somebody that the young lads are looking up to and want to do the same, and this is why it was important that he was then committing even more to the club.”
He added: “I think we found a solution where we had a win-win situation for the club and for him. This is how it should be.”
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl welcomes a selection headache for his squad after Ward-Prowse return #SAINSTFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl was delighted to welcome back skipper James Ward-Prowse at Watford but admitted to having headaches over his team selection.
The England international immediately returned to Saints’ starting XI after serving a three-match ban.
Ward-Prowse replaced Ibrahima Diallo for the 1-0 victory at Vicarage Road and was eventually replaced by the Frenchman with 10 minutes remaining.
Asked by the Daily Echo about the comeback of his captain, manager Hasenhuttl said: “I think we did okay in the past few games when he was not on the pitch but it’s always good to have him back.
“His set-pieces were fantastic again. Also, on the pitch we know that he is an important player for our team.
“But it is also important for me that I see that I have with Ibra and Stuey (Armstrong) two players that can also play on this position.
“This is the difference now. I have a bigger squad, I have some headaches now for who I should pick.
“Prowsey at the end getting a little bit tired. You can sub him and bring in Ibra and this is quality – this makes the difference over last season.”
Saints also have the likes of Oriol Romeu and Will Smallbone to pick from in midfield, the latter having recently returned from a serious knee injury.
Quizzed on the increased depth in his ranks, Hasenhuttl replied: “It makes my work more flexible.
“The only thing is sometimes you have a little headache of what team you should pick.
“But to be honest, this is a nice problem. A nicer issue to have than having nobody and no alternative. Then you have injuries and you don’t know what you do.
“I prefer this (current) situation to be honest.”
Saints have now picked up seven points from their past three league games in all competitions, having beaten Watford and Leeds either side of drawing with Burnley.
Next up for the St Mary’s side is a home clash with Aston Villa on Friday.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl on James Ward-Prowse return and Ben Foster YouTube channel #SAINTSFC #WatfordFC
RALPH Hasenhuttl admits he hasn’t heard of Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster’s YouTube channel but calls on James Ward-Prowse to hit another free-kick into his net – “no matter how many cameras are posted there!”
The veteran 38-year-old shot-stopper became an internet sensation last season when he began taking a small camera and putting it in his goal to capture what professional games look like from inside the net.
He recorded everything from training sessions, scenes inside the dressing room and his matchday saves and blunders – all edited and uploaded to his channel in a video-log stye edit that all the kids are watching.
It hit the national headlines when then-Swansea forward Jamal Lowe scored past the Hornets keeper and celebrated in front of the camera, which, by that point, all the opposition players had heard about.
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One video on his channel, named Ben Foster – The Cycling GK, shows a clip of him saving an Adam Armstrong penalty in the Championship, when the Saints summer signing was the Blackburn Rovers frontman.
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“I haven’t seen it, no, I don’t know what it is.” Hasenhuttl admitted to the Daily Echo.
“It’s an interesting idea,” he continued, before joking, “he wants to see himself standing in the goal!
“It’s okay. What I know is that Prowsey had some good free-kicks against him in the last games that they played.”
Saints skipper Ward-Prowse hit a brilliant free-kick the last time the two teams met in the Premier League, back in June of the postponed and extended 2019-20 campaign.
James Ward-Prowse scores a free-kick past Ben Foster in June 2020 (Pic: PA)
It ended a run of 21 games without a strike, with his last coming in the reverse Watford fixture in November 2019.
Hasenhuttl added: “So it’s good that he is back in this game, back on the pitch because I think that he is obviously a threat from the set-pieces and free-kicks around the box.
“We have to find the back of the net, no matter how many cameras are posted there, this is not interesting to us.”
Foster had to strike an agreement with the Championship to allow him to upload the match footage, which would normally be reserved for paying rights-holders, by donating proceeds of the channel to charity Mind.
Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster (Pic: PA)
If Ward-Prowse is to hit a set-piece beyond Foster on his return from a three-match suspension, unfortunately you might not be able to see the unique angle as the keeper isn’t able to upload the match footage as of yet due to similar issues with Premier League rights.
Foster still uploads matchday videos with unique insight to every other part of the footballer’s day-in-the-life, and will likely do so for the Saints visit today.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories- James Ward Prowse thinks Phil Foden will go a long way for England #SAINTSFC #MCFC
JAMES Ward-Prowse has backed England colleague Phil Foden to go a “long, long way” after his starring role in the World Cup qualifying victory in Andorra.
Playing alongside the Saints captain, Foden ran the show against the Group I minnows, twice picking out fine passes which led to Ben Chilwell and Bukayo Saka scoring on the way to a 5-0 win.
Tammy Abraham added a third before Ward-Prowse tucked home the rebound after his penalty was saved and Jack Grealish completed the rout with his first England goal.
But it was the display of 21-year-old Foden which caught the eye.
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“I thought he was brilliant,” said the Saints skipper.
“It was probably one of the first times I’ve played in a game with him. He’s brilliant to have on your team.
“He wants the ball all the time, You can see his natural ability with the ball. He made a few wonderful passes with his left foot, dinking it over the defensive line of Andorra.
The pair are more used to being on opposing teams (Pic: PA)
“You can see he has an abundance of quality. He has a good head on his shoulders as well. He is going to go a long, long way in the game for sure.”
Ward-Prowse started in a deeper role with Foden and Jesse Lingard ahead of him as part of a three-man midfield.
A ninth senior cap came despite Ward-Prowse having initially missed out on Southgate’s squad before being called up as a replacement for the injured Kalvin Phillips.
“Of course you want to be in the squad straight away,” he said.
“Every player wants to be in it but there is so much competition for places and so many quality players that it becomes increasingly difficult – but injuries happen and I am grateful to be a part of the squad again.
“That’s all you can do. Regardless of the opposition or what circumstances you are put in it is to be there to take your chance and be ready and I feel as if I have made a positive step.”
England are in World Cup qualifying action again tonight, when they welcome Hungary to Wembley Stadium (7:45PM).
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories – Ralph Hasenhuttl reveals satisfaction in Southampton’s performance despite losing to Chelsea #ChelseaFC #SaintsFC
MANAGER Ralph Hasenhuttl saw captain James Ward-Prowse sent off for Saints at Chelsea and insisted: “He knows he didn’t help us.”
The 26-year-old looked set to drive his team on to at least avoid defeat at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, having slotted home from the penalty spot to make it 1-1 against the European champions.
But having cancelled out Trevoh Chalobah’s early opener in the capital, Ward-Prowse was then shown red for a foul on Jorginho 13 minutes from time, following a VAR check.
It was just the second time he had been sent off in his career – the first in a 2-1 defeat at Sunderland in the Premier League back in 2015.
Asked whether Ward-Prowse was apologising for his part following the defeat, Hasenhuttl said: “Yeah, sure. He’s the captain and he knows he didn’t help us today.
“But, yes, I mean no reason to be angry about this.
“We showed really some good performance and it’s a pity we couldn’t finalise it – that is the pity.”
Following Ward-Prowse’s sending off, Thomas Tuchel’s side netted through Timo Werner and ben Chilwell to wrap up all three points.
Ward-Prowse is now set to also be hit with a three-game ban following the dismissal.
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News
#PLStories – #JamesWardProwse understands Southampton fan frustrations but believes recovery will happen soon #SaintsFC
SAINTS skipper James Ward-Prowse admits he can understand frustrations and that hearing supporters inside St Mary’s boo is “difficult to hear,” but adds: “I think we played well enough to win.”
A few jeers rang out around the ground, albeit not from every corner or pocket, as referee Andy Madley blew the full-time whistle on Saints’ first defeat in all competitions since the opening day of the season.
Raul Jimenez’s second-half strike was the only really convincing effort on goal from either side in the whole game, although Tino Livramento found himself in a good pocket of space and was able to strike at Jose Sa in net.
But it was a game of nearly once again for Saints, who now haven’t scored in 270 minutes of Premier League action.
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On the full-time fan reaction, Ward-Prowse told the Daily Echo: “It’s difficult to hear, we can understand why the fans are frustrated.
Midfielder Oriol Romeu applauded fans at the end of the Wolves contest (Pic: PA)
“But we are only six games into a very long season and I think we played well enough to win the game, we just lacked that killer punch going forward that alluded us slightly.
“We got done with one long ball to lose the game so that was obviously disappointing but we have a lot more games to come, we have had a lot of new additions to the team so we are still gelling and finding our way.
“That first win at the weekend would be nice.”
James Ward-Prowse has started in each of the last three at Stamford Bridge, an unbeaten run that has harboured five points (Pic: PA)
The result means Saints are still one of five teams without a win so far in the 2021-22 Premier League season, but of those five they do have the most points and vastly superior goal difference that perhaps displays they’ve only been marginally off it.
It will feel like a long wait for a win in the supporters view, though, as thanks to behind-closed-doors fixtures the last time they witnessed a league win with their own eyes was December 13 2020.
Quizzed if he understands the frustrations, even if it is early days, Ward Prowse insisted: “Of course we do, we all want to win every game, of course we do.
“But we have shown the improvement from last season in terms of our defensive stability and the discipline we have got.
“We have got a couple of clean sheets, we’ve progressed in the cup, we’ve taken some points off some very good teams and Sunday was a kick in the teeth, but we have got a great opportunity Saturday to put that right.”