‘A disgrace,’ says pundit following ‘absolutely absurd’ West Ham player choice

Pundit calls it ‘totally ludicrous’ England dismisses West Ham United’s ‘revelation’ Ward-Prowse, James

Frank McAvennie, a former West Ham United striker, has joined us as an exclusive columnist. He’ll be sharing his thoughts on the key talking points at the London Stadium every week…

Frank McAvennie thinks it’s “absolutely ridiculous” that West Ham ace James Ward-Prowse hasn’t been called up to the England squad.

The West Ham midfielder was left out of Gareth Southgate’s latest Three Lions team during the current international break.

According to BBC Sport (5 October), the manager instead chose Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Kalvin Phillips, Conor Gallagher, and Jordan Henderson in that position.

McAvennie, on the other hand, believes Ward-Prowse should have been called up ahead of Henderson and Phillips due to their lack of playing time.

Southgate’s ongoing selection of Manchester United central defender Harry Maguire has also been questioned by the pundit.

England hosts Australia in a friendly on Friday (13 October), followed by a Euro 2024 qualifying match against Italy on Tuesday (17 October).

McAvennie told West Ham Zone: “I don’t know why he didn’t pick Ward-Prowse.” He’s got Phillips and Henderson on his team, it’s absurd. Don’t get me wrong, these are two fantastic guys, but they shouldn’t be on the team. They are not participating.

“It’s a disgrace for players who play week in and week out and do extremely well.” Even with Maguire at center back. I understand Southgate has favorites, but that’s absurd.

“Ward-Prowse has been a revelation for West Ham since his arrival. It’s a disgrace that you’re not even on the squad. Henderson is performing in front of 900 spectators. He is not at the level of international football. How do you think he’ll be able to compete at that level after that? I’m just not getting it.

“It’s a friendly first up, and these are the games where you have to try new players, but Southgate isn’t doing that.” Ward-Prowse, I feel for you.”

In other West Ham news, a coach has disclosed one of the club’s stars’ reaction to “astounding” news.