In Focus: Set-piece king Ward-Prowse a perfect heir to Rice's throne

West Ham are working hard to lure Southampton skipper James Ward-Prowse to East London.

The Hammers reportedly lead the race for the 28-year-old midfield maestro, who is expected to end a 20-year stint with the Saints following their relegation to the Championship. 

Having established himself as one of the Premier League's most reliable operators in recent years, we consider what Ward-Prowse would bring to the Olympic Stadium.

Terrific technician

Few players in world football have a technique to rival Ward-Prowse when it comes to striking a football.

The England international only further enhanced his reputation as a dead-ball specialist last term when bagging three goals from direct free-kicks.

What is more, the No8 uses his wand of a right boot to carve out chances for his team-mates too — as displayed by an impressive five assists in a struggling side during 2022-23.

West Ham have proven over the last few campaigns that they are a threat from set pieces and the addition of the Portsmouth-born playmaker could help them exploit that area even more.

Reliable presence

It is not just free-kicks that make Ward-Prowse a desirable target for the Hammers.

The 11-cap international is incredibly well-rounded and this is evident from the impressive numbers he posted across the board last campaign.

Ward-Prowse managed to muster 44 shots and create 74 chances for the Saints, all while making sizeable defensive contributions including 65 tackles, 55 interceptions and winning 44 aerial duels.

Compared to the Hammers' departed captain Rice, Ward-Prowse comes out on top in every attacking stat and is also superior in the air.

So while no one can really ever replace the No41 in East London, they do have an excellent option in Southampton's talisman.

Staying disciplined

Ward-Prowse has said he is only focusing on his football as transfer rumours continue to dominate his summer.

Speaking at the end of last term, he said: "My future will take care of itself and I always want to give everything I can to the table to give ourselves a chance of staying in the league.

"In football, you don’t know what’s around the corner.

"The club know my thoughts and my position in terms of what I want to achieve in my career."

Captain material

Though Rice was a hero amongst the West Ham faithful and led by example on the pitch, time moves quickly in football.

His absence puts the Europa Conference League champions at a huge disadvantage going into the new season but fans would surely feel more comfortable about things if a deal was struck for Ward-Prowse.

Afforded the armband at Southampton in 2020, the 28-year-old has always been a model professional with high standards — a trait that would be sure to go down well with Hammers boss David Moyes.

And with the Saints resigned to Championship football this year, a deal may well accelerate over the coming days as the Premier League's return draws closer.