England controversy means West Ham United squad should be angry about let-down James Ward-Prowse
Gareth Southgate’s call to include Jordan Henderson in the England squad ahead of West Ham star James Ward-Prowse has angered fans and should have angered the Hammers players as well.
Henderson’s substitution after 62 minutes against Australia on 13 October was met with boos from the crowd, in a clear display of disapproval for his inclusion in the squad, particularly in place of the in-form Ward-Prowse.
According to Fabrizio Romano [Daily Briefing, 8 October], the midfielder’s West Ham teammates were saddened by his exclusion, but that sadness should turn to anger matching that of the fans.
Southgate responded to the boos, calling Henderson “exceptional” and “a role model”, questioning the fans’ decision to show their frustrations with his continuing confusing squad selections as he still feels the Al-Ettifaq midfielder plays a key role in his squad [BBC, 13 October].
Ward-Prowse has been let down, with his scintillating form since joining the East London club in the summer proving he is more than worthy of an international call-up, particularly ahead of the likes of Henderson who all but ruled himself out of international contention with his move to Saudi Arabia.
With eight goal contributions (two goals and six assists) in nine games so far this season both in the Premier League and Europa League, there isn’t much more the midfielder could have done to prove he is worthy of playing for England.
The fans and the players are right to be angered at Southgate continuing to overlook some of the country’s most in-from players, with Raheem Sterling also among players who can feel hard done by after his exclusion.
Players in such good form as the West Ham ace should be in the squad. Even if he doesn’t intend on him starting over the likes of Jude Bellingham or Declan Rice, he has earned his involvement.
In other West Ham news, Fabrizio Romano has dropped an update on Kurt Zouma.