The reasons why James Ward-Prowse left West Ham United for Burnley are, as you might imagine, pretty predictable.
The chance to play regular Premier League football again was, of course, the main one.
Nuno Espirito Santo called Ward-Prowse up for the first time since he took charge in September during Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Sunderland. That was the only time he had featured in a matchday squad under the current West Ham United boss.
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The England international jumped at the chance presented to him by Burnley and former Hammers midfielder Scott Parker, then.
James Ward-Prowse moves to Turf Moor on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
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Burnley loanee James Ward-Prowse opens up on West Ham United exit and Scott Parker talks
Speaking to the official Burnley website, Ward-Prowse admits he was ‘impressed’ by the way Parker sold the idea of a fresh start in Lancashire to him.
The Clarets may be a step backwards – five points and one place behind his parent club in the table – but that matters not to a man who hasn’t played a senior minute since Graham Potter was at the helm of the London Stadium outfit.
“I was really impressed with how [Parker] came across, how he delivered the messages about the objectives, which I think is clear for everybody to see,” Ward-Prowse says.
“Just the chance to come here to show people what I can do. I certainly feel as though I have the quality and experience to hopefully help the group in the best way possible, and to achieve the goal of staying in the Premier League.”
Ward-Prowse was understandably frustrated with his role – or a lack thereof – under Nuno.
“I’ve been used to throughout my career playing consistently and playing a lot,” he adds. “So, to have had a bit of a period away from the game if you like was disappointing and challenging in many ways. But I think it gave me a chance to reflect on myself and to work on a few things.
“It’s almost made my love for the game grow even more. I’m eager to get back playing and hopefully help the team in the best way possible.
“It’s good to get everything done. It’s crazy how quickly football can change and these things happen. It’s good to be here, I’m glad to be in the building and I’m looking forward to getting started now.
“I’m somebody that always gives 100 per cent that’s something that’s been ingrained in me right from a young lad coming through the academy, was to give 100 per cent no matter what. Of course, we all want to play well every week, it’s not always possible but I’ll always give everything for the shirt no matter who I’m playing for.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead. It’s clear what needs to be achieved and hopefully I can play a good part in that.”
Ward-Prowse and Lucas Paqueta leave the Hammers on the same day
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Hammers News can confirm that sporting director Mark Noble is an admirer of Scott Parker. He was one of the names under consideration before Nuno – who is hoping to extend a three-match winning run away at Chelsea on Saturday evening – got the top job a few months ago.
The two-time West Ham Player of the Year appears destined to fall short in his hopes of leading Burnley to safety, though Ward-Prowse’s experience and set-piece delivery should provide some reason for optimism.
West Ham bid farewell to Lucas Paqueta on Wednesday, too. The Brazilian re-joins Flamengo for a fee in the region of £35 million.
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