James Ward-Prowse back at Southampton and could forge five partnerships | OneFootball

According to Sainstmarching.com, James Ward-Prowse has returned to Southampton on a two-year deal at St Mary’s after three seasons with West Ham United. He could yet shape the side through five on-pitch partnerships.

He called the homecoming surreal after an intense few days, adding he is delighted to wear red and white again. Having joined the academy at eight, he regards Southampton as home and is excited for the challenge ahead.

Cyle Larin looks a natural ally. The Canadian has scored the most Championship goals since February, and Ward-Prowse’s set-pieces could increase his supply in the box. Both are 31, and Larin is already a cult figure on the south coast.

Leo Scienza offers another route. After a strong debut campaign and a sensational strike at Portsmouth’s Fratton Park, the 27-year-old won more fouls than anyone in the Championship last season. If he keeps drawing free-kicks around the area, Ward-Prowse could have regular chances.

At left-back, Ryan Manning has usually started and brings set-piece threat, while Welington is equally capable. With Ward-Prowse likely to assume most dead balls, the pair could rotate more across a long 46-game season.

In midfield, Cam Bragg’s rise was a highlight last season, having been told the previous summer he was not good enough even for the EFL. The arrival of an experienced Staplewood graduate in Ward-Prowse could be invaluable as the 21-year-old builds his career.

Source: Sainstmarching.com

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