Surprise about Gareth Southgate’s choice: ‘He’s not that flashy, but…’
Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 10:32 AM
James Ward-Prowse finds it strange that he is not part of the England selection, the midfielder told TNT Sports after the Conference League match between West Ham United and Olympiakos (1-0 win).
Ward-Prowse came over from the well-behaved Southampton last summer for 35 million euros. The playmaker has played ten Premier League matches for West Ham so far. He scored twice and was responsible for a goal three times. He also provided the assist for the winning goal against Olympiacos.
“I am my biggest critic,” says the 29-year-old midfielder after the match. “To qualify for the national team you have to play regularly and well. I meet the requirements, but in the end the bell did not come…”
However, Ward-Prowse says he can live with national coach Gareth Southgate’s decision. “I do what I can for West Ham and that is what I focus on. I am really enjoying it here,” he concludes.
Carlton Cole, former Chelsea and West Ham striker, finds Southgate’s choice incomprehensible. “I’m really amazed. Of course he should be there. He’s one of the best passers in the Premier League. He came here and didn’t need any adjustment time at all. He’s not flashy, just a great professional.”
Joe Cole says in the TNT Sports broadcast that he somewhat understands Southgate’s choice. “I think he deserves the chance, but the national coach has so many good midfielders. I understand that it is difficult for him, but if England keeps winning it will be difficult to get in the way.”
In England people are surprised that Kalvin Phillips and Jordan Henderson have been called up in favor of Ward-Prowse. The former has only made four appearances for Manchester City this season and Henderson is seventh in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ettifaq.
2023-11-11 10:30:00
#Hes #flashy #but..
