Joe Cole raves about ‘exceptional’ James Ward-Prowse after West Ham United win v Backa Topola
Joe Cole has raved about James Ward-Prowse following his performance in the West Ham victory over Backa Topola in the Europa League on Thursday (21 September).
Speaking on TNT Sports after the game, the pundit said he is “surprised” how well the “exceptional” England international has done for the Hammers since signing from Southampton over the summer.
He added that there isn’t anyone in world football that possesses as much quality from set-pieces as the 28-year-old midfielder after picking up another two assists in the 3-1 win over the Serbian side at the London Stadium.
When asked about Ward-Prowse’s performance, Cole said: “Exceptional. A really unique footballer, a top footballer. I’ve been a fan, but I’m surprised how well he’s done because when you’ve been at a club for as long as him, being the figurehead at a club and then you go somewhere like West Ham, there’s a change of environment, so credit to him for how he’s settled in.
“His set-pieces, I don’t think there’s anyone in world football with that kind of quality.”
Different class
There is no doubt about it, Ward-Prowse has been absolutely different class since joining West Ham and his performances are only improving.
While the Irons have always been a threat from set-pieces under David Moyes, the midfielder’s delivery is on the money just about every single time and they are profiting massively from that.
He’s already registered two goals and five assists in his first five matches for the club, going a long way towards paying back the £30million fee they paid to sign him.
His work-rate off the ball and his ability to pick out a pass has also been impressive and, as Cole points out, it’s a surprise to see him settle in so quickly.
It’s pretty clear that Ward-Prowse is already emerging as one of the fans’ favourites and we really can’t wait to see what else is to come from him over the course of this season.
In other West Ham news, the club have received a multi-million financial windfall without kicking a ball.