Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse will not be short of suitors if he decides it is time for a new challenge, says journalist Pete O'Rourke.

While the 28-year-old is not currently being linked with a move away from St Mary's, he has been a target for the likes of West Ham and Aston Villa in the past.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

What is the latest news involving Ward-Prowse?

Ward-Prowse was not included in England's squad for this year's World Cup.

It is a disappointing development for the Saints captain, especially given the fact that he was a part of the Three Lions' roster for their last round of fixtures.

Since then, though, it appears that he has not done enough to convince Gareth Southgate that he is worthy of a World Cup spot.

In June, the Daily Mirror reported that West Ham were keen on signing Ward-Prowse, and the year prior, Sky Sports claimed that Villa had a £25m offer for him turned down.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

What has O'Rourke said about Ward-Prowse?

If Ward-Prowse does decide one day that he wants to try something new, O'Rourke does not think there will be a lack of interest in the Southampton youth product.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT following the player's England snub, the journalist said: "Maybe his form this season has not been as good as it has been in previous seasons, so maybe that's played a part in Southgate's decision.

"I'm sure if James Ward-Prowse does make that decision to leave Southampton, there won't be a shortage of takers for him because he's proven to be a top player in the Premier League."

How important is Ward-Prowse to Southampton?

Very. As O'Rourke touched on, he has not been at his best so far this season, managing just the one Premier League goal in 15 appearances. Nevertheless, he is not a player Nathan Jones will want to lose.

Ward-Prowse is obviously club captain, while he is, of course, also a dead-ball specialist.

Last term, the £100,000-a-week England international scored four free-kicks in the top flight, as well as four penalties.

On Ward-Prowse, Jones' predecessor Ralph Hasenhuttl said earlier this year (via BBC Sport): “He’s a real captain for me, a role model on how you should act.

"I have never seen a fitter player than him, definitely able to play three games a week without any issues, and it’s no coincidence he’s played nearly every minute of the past two seasons."

All of the above shows Ward-Prowse's importance to Southampton and why Jones has to keep him at the club.

You can find all the latest football news and rumours right here