Ward-Prowse left out of West Ham squad for Southampton return | OneFootball

Former Saints captain James Ward-Prowse was denied a first return to St Mary's after being left out of West Ham's squad on Tuesday.

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo said the 31-year-old was fit but not selected. "We have to make the list, we have to make the list. Many of our players stayed at Rush Green, and it's normal," he told Daily Echo. Ward-Prowse has made two substitute appearances this season.

He joined West Ham for £30 million three years ago after Southampton were relegated to the Championship the first time around.

Since 2024/25 he has had a stop-start career, with 43 league appearances for three different clubs.

Espirito Santo left him out of his Nottingham Forest squad during a loan spell at the City Ground, before later taking charge at West Ham.

The midfielder has often been linked with a return to Saints, and any potential availability this week could interest decision-makers at St Mary's.

Southampton still want a central midfielder to replace Shea Charles, who joined Fulham in a deal worth up to £30 million earlier in August.

West Ham are regarded as tough negotiators and finances remain a hurdle, though their asking price may be reduced by Tuesday's deadline.

Ward-Prowse made 410 appearances after coming through the academy, scoring 55 goals and providing 52 assists.

Source: Daily Echo

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