Ward-Prowse feeling benefits of new position at Saints

James Ward-Prowse admits it has been a learning curve adapting to a new position but believes he is now beginning to thrive.

Southampton have switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation in recent weeks, with Ward-Prowse on the right of the three, and have notched back-to-back away wins over Watford and Sunderland.

So impressive has the 22-year-old been that he earned a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad on Thursday, an honour his performances have more than warranted.

Before heading off for international duty, the former England Under-21 international travels with the Saints to Tottenham this Sunday – their first game in 15 days following an early exit from the FA Cup.

And he is raring to go again after the rest that followed a busy start to 2017.

“We did well to adapt to playing every three days,” said Ward-Prowse. “We have to use this time to regenerate and get some rest in ahead of what’s going to be an important end to the season and a very busy one

“The new position has been good. It’s a different role for me but I think it’s positive as I’m learning a new position and the manager has put faith in me to play there.

“I’m learning all the time in each game which is important and I feel like I’m growing into the role. It’s been nice to get a good run in the team.”