Konstantinos Mavropanos reveals James Ward-Prowse trait that always gives West Ham ‘advantage’
Konstantinos Mavropanos waxed lyrical over James Ward-Prowse’s deadly dead-ball ability, saying it always gives West Ham an “advantage” over their opponents.
Ward-Prowse has turned into a fan favourite at the London Stadium since arriving in the summer transfer window from Southampton with his prowess from free-kicks a particularly exciting trait.
Mavropanos was reflecting on making his own West Ham debut against Backa Topola with the club’s official website (29 November) ahead of Thursday’s (30 November) reverse fixture in the Europa League, and talked up his teammate’s ability.
“It was nice to play my first game at home on a European night, so it was good to start and make my debut that night. I had one or two chances from corners and free-kicks to score but unfortunately I didn’t make it!” he said.
“Of course, scoring is not the first thing I am thinking about because I am a defender, but I am hoping it will happen. Every single set piece James [Ward-Prowse] takes is exactly where the ball has to go, so it gives us an advantage to score every time we get a set piece.”
Deadly accuracy
In Premier League history, only one man has scored more direct free-kick goals than Hammers ace James Ward-Prowse, whose tally sits a mightily impressive 17.
That man is, of course, Manchester United great David Beckham, who managed 18 for the Red Devils before departing for Real Madrid and LaLiga.
It is hugely impressive company to be in and Hammers fans will be hoping that he can surpass the number scored by the former England captain while playing in a West Ham shirt – should he manage to do it this season then all the better!
The point being that Mavropanos is absolutely right to be hailing his teammate’s uncanny ability, anytime he stands over the ball from a set-piece situation you get the anticipation that something can happen and that is a hugely beneficial thing to have in the squad.
Ward-Prowse has been one of the best players for West Ham this season, and his contributions from set pieces can help them compete domestically and in Europe.
In other West Ham news, Darren Bent says Jarrod Bowen could be an ideal signing for Newcastle United.