Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce spoke to the media ahead of his side’s game against Southampton on Friday.
The Saints have had a stunning start to the season, having won four and drawn one of their first five league games. Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are currently sixth on the table, and they fully deserve it.
Southampton smashed four past Aston Villa last weekend. James Ward-Prowse stole all the headlines with two fantastic free-kicks, and Bruce claims that the Saints star’s technique reminds him of former Manchester United, Real Madrid and England star David Beckham.
Bruce: Ward-Prowse reminds me of footballing great
He told the Mirror: “He (Ward-Prowse) reminds me, the way he strikes it, the way he takes it the way he kicks it, he’s so like a Beckham. He’s been excellent for years, I’ve been a big admirer of him for a long time now. He’s a really, really top, top midfield player who scores a goal and great attitude.
“He epitomises Southampton, really, and what they’re all about. I’ve got the highest regard for him, he’s a really good player, the kid.”
Ward-Prowse has been one of the Premier League’s best set-piece takers over the years. The Saints midfielder has immense quality with a dead ball – just like Beckham did all those years ago.
Newcastle will have to be wary of his ability on Friday. A cheap free-kick anywhere near the box could prove costly. Just ask Aston Villa, who learnt it the hard way last weekend.
Southampton’s record against the Magpies over the last few years has been terrible. The Saints have won just once in their last eight meetings, and Hasenhuttl will be hoping that Ward-Prowse finds the top corner a couple more times on Friday to change that record.
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