West Ham United: Stuart Pearce makes James Ward-Prowse claim live on talkSPORT after England snub
Stuart Pearce says West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse should “be the happiest man in the world”, despite being left out of the England squad.
Ward-Prowse’s omission for the friendly with Australia and Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy was a huge talking point, with his superb club form not enough to earn him a call-up.
While many have strongly criticised Gareth Southgate’s decision, former England and West Ham defender Pearce offered an alternative take on the situation.
Speaking to talkSPORT on Friday [13 October, 19:31], Pearce said: “I’d probably be the happiest man in the world to be left out at this moment in time if I’m James Ward-Prowse.
“I’d be saying, ‘I can’t do any more, I’ll continue doing what I’m doing to put pressure on the manager, but I can’t do any more’.
“It’s when you’re not in the squad and not hitting the standards to be in the squad [that you should be worried].
Strange choice
Southgate’s decision to overlook Ward-Prowse for England’s double-header in September was strange, let alone for the Australia and Italy games.
The 28-year-old would give the Three Lions something different with his set-piece deliveries – and indeed his pinpoint crosses from open play.
JWP has been used in a few different midfield positions since arriving at West Ham – as a six, a 10 and an eight – and has thrived in each of those roles.
With six assists and two goals in nine appearances in all competitions for United, he really is in the form of his life.
The ultimate aim for Ward-Prowse will be getting a call-up for next year’s European Championship finals.
Continue his West Ham form between now and then, and there is simply no way Southgate will be able to overlook him.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have been told to consider selling one of their first-team regulars.