West Ham midfielder James Ward Prowse spent 11 years in Southampton’s first team. When the two side’s meet on Saturday, sentiment will have to take a back seat with the Hammers in need of three points and a big performance.

Similar to West Ham, Southampton are famed for having a top academy which has produced many exceptional players. Many years before he won caps for England, captained his boyhood club or became their record Premier League appearance holder, West Ham midfielder James Ward Prowse was just another youngster coming through the ranks at the South Coast club.

Having made over 400 appearances for Southampton, it is naturally a Club that will forever hold a special place in the 30 year old’s heart. “It’s a club that gave me the opportunity as a kid to achieve a dream and give me that chance to do that, so it’s a club and a place I’ll always be very, very grateful for.” said Ward Prowse when reflecting on his time at Southampton.

Saturday’s game against the midfielder’s former side feels an important one. West Ham have not won since their 2-0 win at home against Leicester at the end of February.

Playing an already relegated Southampton is an excellent opportunity for Graham Potter’s side to produce a big performance, secure a convincing win and a much needed three points.

Discussing West Ham’s current league position and the importance of a win against his former side, Ward Prowse said: “I’ve been in that position (17th) before, unfortunately, and you can sometimes feel that ‘we’re not at a level’ and it feels around the place that we’re low, whereas now I feel like the league’s not a true reflection of where we are as a team.”

Ward Prowse added: “I feel as though the results haven’t been what we wanted, but the performances have been strong and we’re really competitive in all the games, and it could have gone either way in all of them. So I think that’s a positive and it’s just important that we get another win under our belts on Saturday.”

Facing the club where it all started, there will be no time for Ward Prowse to look back. The Hammers need a win, and the former Southampton man will want to play his part in helping Graham Potter’s side get a result.

A big win would help the Hammers regain some confidence. After Saturday, Potter’s side will have five Premier League games remaining. Should they win against Southampton, they will hope it can act as a springboard to help them pick up more points between now and the end of the season and better their current league position of 17th.