James Ward-Prowse: West Ham future certain to take fresh twist
James Ward-Prowse could still leave West Ham United this summer, with just one year left on his current contract.
The former Saints star has been somewhat of an outcast at the London Stadium over the last 12 months, and even more so under Nuno Espirito Santo.
Even at Nottingham Forest, Nuno opted against utilising the England midfielder, which made his appointment at West Ham even worse news for Ward-Prowse.
He very quickly found himself linked with an exit from the Hammers, though that changed after relegation.
But with Nuno now set to stay, his future is looking increasingly bleak, with an exit possible.
Nuno decision set to shape Ward-Prowse's future
Had Nuno left West Ham upon relegation, Ward-Prowse would almost certainly have had a future with the Irons.
Even more so when it was claimed that Scott Parker was in line to take over if a change were to take place, just months after he was sacked at Burnley.
However, with Nuno now set to stay and attempt to guide West Ham back to the Premier League, questions will be posed about his future.
It's clear that Nuno isn't a fan of the midfielder for one reason or another, and that is highly unlikely to change this summer.
The 31-year-old made just six appearances for the Irons before joining Burnley on loan, having made just 16 appearances the season prior.
An exit is now back to looking like the most reasonable outcome for both parties.
Ward-Prowse's contract examined
Come the end of June, Ward-Prowse will enter the final year of his deal with West Ham United.
One thing is clear; he won't be extending his stay at the London Stadium, but it points more towards an exit based on that.
This summer will be the Hammers' last chance to get a somewhat reasonable fee for his sale, and of course get his wages off the books, which will be a boost to their summer spending ability.
As to what comes next for Ward-Prowse, only time will tell, though given his experience and expertise from set pieces, it's unlikely that he will be too short of potential suitors.