Surprise James Ward-Prowse claim emerges just 12 months into his West Ham career. An intriguing claim has just come to light about West Ham United midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
James Ward-Prowse joined West Ham from Southampton this time last year, for a fee believed to be worth around £30 million. Julen Lopetegui has since made huge changes to the Hammers squad, having brought eight new players into the London Stadium, whilst allowing six to leave. The West Ham head coach is determined to make more signings before the transfer window slams shut on August 30th.
However, in order to do that, he must move on some of his fringe players first. So could Ward-Prowse really be up for the chop this summer, despite his huge contribution last season?
James Ward-Prowse could be set for West Ham exit
The former Southampton man has been labelled as a one-trick pony, because of his lack of influence on the game outside of set-pieces.
And now it seems like Lopetegui could well be thinking along the same sort of lines. According to a report from The Times, West Ham are plotting a mass player clear-out between now and the end of the summer transfer window.
And Ward-Prowse is one of NINE players who could be shown the exit door at the London Stadium.
One thing that does really frustrate me is that David Moyes had the chance to sign Youssouf Fofana last summer, but opted for the 29-year-old instead. If there’s one thing that we really lack right now in central midfield, it’s a player with pace, power, athleticism and mobility in abundance.
I feel like we overpaid for Ward-Prowse, but that doesn’t mean that he can’t still be a useful weapon for us.
So…keep or sell?
Ward-Prowse actually has a fine record for the Hammers, with seven goals and 11 assists to his name in 52 appearances. However, his all-round contribution to the team has been questioned at times, what with his lack of mobility and athleticism.
His is unable to play as part of a deep-lying double pivot, and has proven that he’s incredibly easy to play around.
That said, James Ward-Prowse is a top professional, and he still has a lot of good things to offer West Ham. As long as he’s played in more of an attacking role, I think he could be a very useful option for Lopetegui this season and beyond, certainly as an impact sub.
However, if a club come in with a firm offer for the 29-year-old over the next two weeks, I believe the club may well decide to cash in on him.
