James Ward-Prowse West Ham availability v Chelsea revealed after recall
James Ward-Prowse will not be available for West Ham United as they face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, according to West Ham Football.
The Hammers insider revealed on their X account that Graham Potter can't rely on the midfielder against the Blues on Monday 3 February after he was recalled from his loan.
Ward-Prowse joined Nottingham Forest on a temporary move last summer but will return to the London Stadium after a mutual agreement [David Ornstein, 3 February].
The Irons won't be able to register him in time to be eligible for the short trip to West London.
James Ward-Prowse to play key role at West Ham United under Graham Potter
The England international was one of the most impactful players from set-pieces for the East London club last season, and it was a surprise to see him leave last summer.
Julen Lopetegui seemed uninterested in the 30-year-old, but the former Brighton boss could surely use someone with his qualities.
Edson Alvarez and Guido Rodriguez are more robust midfielders who can't be expected to create something in the final third.
Carlos Soler has come into his own at West Ham under Potter, but the Spain international is only on loan until the end of the season.
Ward-Prowse could evidently be someone the English manager could look at to build the team around going forward.
The 30-year-old also possesses the leadership qualities that seem to be missing at the London Stadium right now.
It will be interesting to see how the midfielder will fit into the former Brighton boss' plans until the end of the campaign.
In other West Ham news, the Evan Ferguson deal is set to be formally signed in the coming hours.