James Ward-Prowse insists meeting ‘hero’ David Beckham is his main motivation in chase for the Premier League free-kick goals record… as the Manchester United legend replies he’s ‘looking forward to it!’
- James Ward-Prowse scored twice as Southampton drew 2-2 with Brighton
- The first goal was another free-kick, his 14th in the Premier League
- Only David Beckham (18) has scored more in the top flight than him
James Ward-Prowse says getting the opportunity to meet David Beckham is his biggest motivation when it comes to breaking the England legend’s Premier League free-kick record.
Ward-Prowse’s set-piece expertise was on display once again on Sunday as he curled one in during his side’s 2-2 draw with Brighton, where he scored both his side’s goals.
The strike means Ward-Prowse has now scored four from direct free-kicks this season – the same as last year – with only Beckham (2000-01) and Laurent Robert (2001-02) scoring five in a single Premier League campaign.
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Beckham responded on Instagram, saying he was looking forward to meeting him
And only Beckham (18) has scored more than the 14 that the Southampton star has managed in the top flight.
Asked about closing in on the former United man’s record, Ward-Prowse said: ‘my main motivation is to meet my hero who I loved when I was growing up.
‘If I do get that record, hopefully he’ll reach out – but there’s a long way to go just yet.’
And Beckham took to Instagram to respond, sharing a video of the 27-year-old talking with caption ‘looking forward to it mate… another great one today. Four more to go.’
Ward-Prowse scored his 14th free-kick in the Premier League against Brighton Sunday
Ward-Prowse also scored a fine second for Southampton as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side came from two down to rescue a point at the Amex and the Saints boss was delighted with his captain’s performance.
‘He is a very important player for us, that is for sure,’ he said. ‘We know all about his quality, especially from free-kicks.
‘No goalkeeper wants to stay behind the wall when James is lining one up – it gets harder and harder to see what is coming.’
