---
title: "Glenn Hoddle thinks James Ward-Prowse could be ‘major asset’ for Saints’ Premier League rivals"
canonical: "https://readsouthampton.com/2020/12/29/glenn-hoddle-james-ward-prowse-major-asset-spurs-everton/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "jrushworth"
section: "News"
published: "2020-12-29T16:00:00Z"
modified: "2020-12-29T16:00:00Z"
---

# Glenn Hoddle thinks James Ward-Prowse could be ‘major asset’ for Saints’ Premier League rivals

[Former Southampton manager](https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/glenn-hoddle/stationen/trainer/459) Glenn Hoddle believes that Saints midfielder [James Ward-Prowse](https://readsouthampton.com/?p=60271) could be a ‘major asset’ for Premier League rivals such as Tottenham and Everton to consider signing.

Ward-Prowse is enjoying a brilliant start to the campaign on a personal level, with four goals and three assists in 15 Premier League appearances ([Sofascore](https://www.sofascore.com/player/james-ward-prowse/161717)), mainly thanks to his quality from [dead ball situations](https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/james-ward-prowse/alletore/spieler/181579). That has seen him lauded as [‘unbelievable’](https://play.acast.com/s/footballpreviewshow/thetightestoftitleraces) by Darren Ambrose and [described](https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/the-best-free-kick-taker-i-have-seen-in-my-life-pep-praises-ward-/1ccfst0ctpf4x1jnjicd2bo44l) by Pep Guardiola as the best free kick taker he has ever seen.

The 26-year-old is integral to Southampton’s midfield and general style of play, and not just an effective weapon from set pieces. Ward-Prowse has averaged an impressive 1.1 shots, 1.7 key passes, 1.3 interceptions and 2.2 tackles per game this season ([Sofascore](https://www.sofascore.com/player/james-ward-prowse/161717)), illustrating that he has developed into a quality all-round midfielder for the Saints.

Speaking on The Glenn Hoddle Footy Show Podcast \[via [Midnight Productions](https://midnightuk.co.uk/glenn-hoddle-footy-show/)\], the 63-year-old suggested that Ward-Prowse is the type of player on whom both Tottenham and Everton should be keeping a watchful eye, believing the midfielder could handle the pressure of playing for either club. Hoddle said of the 26-year-old:

> I think his all-round game has come on leaps and bounds, but as a set piece artist there is no-one better
>
> He’d be a major asset for Tottenham, for instance. Or he could go and play in Everton’s team tomorrow.
>
> Whether he has the mentality, you don’t know until he goes to a big club. But he’s been in and around the England squad and I think he’s growing as a player.

### **Read Southampton verdict**

It seemed only a matter of time before Ward-Prowse would start to get touted for a move to a bigger club and the Saints will have to be prepared for potential interest in the 26-year-old, such has been his form at the start of the season. The midfielder has [become very consisten](https://www.whoscored.com/Teams/18/Show/England-Southampton)t in his performances and Ralph Hasenhuttl is getting the very best out of him.

Ward-Prowse’s set piece ability makes him a standout player and one who could be of interest to many other teams, but it is also important to highlight the other qualities he brings to the Saints with his [infectious energy](https://www.whoscored.com/Players/105172/Show/James-Ward-Prowse) helping them press opponents higher up the pitch and his[passing ability](https://www.whoscored.com/Players/105172/Show/James-Ward-Prowse) crucial for getting Southampton going in attack.

The Saints cannot really afford to lose him and he would be very costly to replace. Therefore, it would be a surprise to see him leave in January at least, but the likes of Tottenham and Everton could potentially consider testing Southampton’s resolve to keep hold of him in the summer.