Southampton played out a 0-0 draw with Fulham on Boxing Day but plentiful supporters of many clubs still hailed James Ward-Prowse, who was combative in midfield and effective in attack for the Saints.
The England international turned over possession six times, had more of the ball than his fellow midfielders and was unlucky not to have scored for his troubles – the 26-year-old had a brilliant free kick tipped onto the woodwork by Alphonse Areola and Che Adams missed the follow-up.
Ward-Prowse played for 90 minutes against Fulham, had 75 touches, won two aerial duels, completed 82.8% of his 58 passes, created one chance, had one shot which hit the target, whipped in three crosses won three tackles, made three interceptions and made two clearances. [WhoScored]
The 26-year-old has made 16 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring four goals and supplying three assists (Transfermarkt). Ward-Prowse has been a regular under Ralph Hasenhuttl and frequently captains the Saints. His performance against Fulham showed exactly why.
These football fans on Twitter – some of the Saints and some of other persuasions – hailed the midfielder’s display at Craven Cottage using phrases such as “class” and “a joy to watch”:
I’d have Ward Prowse in our midfield. I’ve said that before and I’ll say it again. He’s class.
— 🔴⚪️ COYG 🔴⚪️ (@92_OJM) December 26, 2020
Ward-Prowse is world class
— EG. (@EliteGunner) December 26, 2020
James ward prowse is so good technically
— __Ai5O5A__♈️ (@graph_ice) December 26, 2020
https://twitter.com/swillis2000/status/1342854990851923969?s=20
https://twitter.com/KM_lane/status/1342855250017923072?s=20
https://twitter.com/ABronsSmith/status/1342883899173728257?s=20
Positive clean sheet. Fulham drew with Pool. Our spine was missing. Back four strong. JWP played well. Walcott and Armstrong not good today.
— Oakleyvale (@Oakleyvale1) December 26, 2020
Just goes to show football is all opinions. I had Walcott as our MOTM, second week in a row. Bednarek, KWP and JWP strong as ever too. Stephens and Diallo impressed for players who must be rusty. Couldn't fault the commitment of any saints player and they can all have off days.
— SaintOxford 💙 (@SaintOxford) December 26, 2020
Quiz time: Can you remember the outcome of previous festive matches for Southampton?
