Southampton sweating over £35m star’s fitness ahead of Newcastle United clash

Southampton are sweating over James Ward-Prowse’s fitness ahead of Sunday afternoon’s trip to Newcastle United (kick-off 2pm).

The Saints took another step towards the Premier League exit door after their 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth on Thursday night left them six points from safety.

Marcus Tavernier scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute - just as Ward-Prowse was forced to withdraw at half-time.

“He got a sore throat. He went through training, went home and didn’t have the best night,” interim boss Ruben Selles revealed. “He ran out of energy and then we needed to take him out.”

“During the day he was recovering well and he wanted to play and he wanted to be there. But with the weather conditions that we had during the first half, it was too much for him.”

Selles hopes to have the 28-year-old available for Sunday’s visit to St James’ Park, though he will be assessed by the club’s doctors.

“I need to speak to the doctor. I think he will be okay but the doctor will need to look at him,” Selles said.

Saints have reportedly told Ward-Prowse he can leave this summer - if their 2022-23 Premier League season ends in relegation.

The England international has spent his entire career at St Mary’s, although has previously attracted interest from Newcastle, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United. It’s claimed the trio are keeping tabs on the central midfielder’s situation.

Ward-Prowse is considered a set-piece specialist and is just one direct free-kick away from equalling David Beckham’s Premier League record of 18 converted.

The 11-capped England international has played 402 times for the Saints, which includes 53 goals and provided 51 assists. In 22-23, Ward-Prowse has netted nine times and registered three assists.

According to Football Transfers, Ward-Prowse is worth around £35million, however Southampton are expected to demand more.

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