Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse has reportedly been given the green light to leave the club if they are relegated from the Premier League this summer. The midfielder has spent his entire career at St Mary’s but with interest from Newcastle, Tottenham and West Ham, he could be on his way out.
The Saints are currently bottom of the league, four points adrift of safety with only seven games remaining. Their next match against league leaders Arsenal away will be a major test if they are to retain their top-flight status.
If the club is relegated, then the 28-year-old Ward-Prowse, known for his free-kick abilities, would have no shortage of suitors. The midfielder has also earned 11 caps for England and a move could enhance his chances of featuring more prominently for Gareth Southgate’s side.
Ward-Prowse has made an impressive 402 appearances for Southampton, scoring 53 goals and providing 51 assists. However, if the club does get relegated, they could lose further members of their squad.
Southampton will conclude their season with fixtures against Bournemouth, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Brighton and Liverpool after their game against Arsenal.
In conclusion, it remains to be seen if Ward-Prowse will leave the club, but if they are relegated, it is highly likely that the Southampton captain will seek pastures new.