Jamie O’Hara gushes over West Ham United ace Ward-Prowse, makes England-Gareth Southgate admission

Jamie O’Hara has given Gareth Southgate a piece of his mind over the exclusion of West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse.

Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, O’Hara admits that he’s been blown away by what he’s seen of the 28-year-old in recent weeks.

He moved to the London Stadium this summer and has begun life at his new club pretty well, much to the delight of David Moyes.

O’Hara said, “He’s been in sensational form since he signed for West Ham. Top player. Brilliant set piece taker. Scores penalties.

“If you don’t take him to this tournament, you’re an idiot, Southgate. You made that mistake last EUROs when he didn’t take Ward-Prowse and we had players step up in big moments to take penalties and buckled.

Ward-Prowse may not be as technical as Declan Rice or Jude Bellingham but despite Kalvin Phillips’ good performances for the country, Rice can offer what he does.

A player like Ward-Prowse has such unique skills that are unparalleled in this England setup.

He’s an unbelievable set piece taker and that’s important because England do score from corners and free kicks and the chances of that happening with the West Ham player in the team are higher.

He’ll also offer the perfect balance which can free up Bellingham and he surely will be a more than decent partner to Rice in midfield.

How Southgate does not pick him is a mystery and this international break was the perfect chance to take a punt on him.

He’s been one of the best signings of the summer and has walked into a side that’s lost Rice and not really made them feel the difference.

In other West Ham news, the Hammers are now frustrated with a £10m player as a behind-the-scenes revelation has emerged from the London Stadium.