3 Stars Pochettino must target from his previous teams

2. James Ward-Prowse

Mateo Kovacic has not been himself lately. The Croatian International has struggled ever since his return from the World Cup. And the captain’s armband only made it worse as it possibly added extra pressure. And recent reports suggest that with only 12 months left on his contract, Kovacic will consider a move away from the Bridge at the end of the season with Thomas Tuchel wanting him at the Allianz Arena, a deal which could see Leroy Sane in Blue. Inter Milan are also said to be interested in the midfielder.

Conor Gallagher’s role at the club has seen a significant up trend. However to avoid scrutiny from the Financial Fair Play office, Conor Gallagher could be one of the first names to leave the west London outfit. Ruben Loftus-cheek too is a target for AC Milan with a summer move in mind.

And with N’Golo Kante’s recurring injury concerns, the Blues definitely need to strengthen their midfield this summer. Romeo Lavia and Declan Rice are already being considered and with Pochettino’s appointment, the England outcast could be added to the shortlist.

Southampton find themselves on the 20th position of the Premier League points table with only five games left to play. And with only one since February which was obviously secured at Stamford Bridge, the Saints are likely to get the drop.

In spite of his consistent displays, Ward-Prowse missed the flight to Qatar after being overlooked by Gareth Southgate who called up Conor Gallagher instead who was an Impact sub at Chelsea. Which made it evident that the Saints’ skipper needs to move to a top club to be a part of the International setup.

The dead ball specialist came through Southampton’s academy and made his debut at a tender age of 16. Since then the Englishman has never looked back, he developed rapidly and made his Premier League debut at 17 in the opening game after the side was promoted from the Championship.

James Ward-Prowse was a symbol of Pochettino’s time at the South Coast as he represented the blooding in of youth that the Argentine championed and achieved during his time. He deployed Ward-Prowse all over the midfield, using him as a central, left, right and also as an attacking midfielder displaying his versatility.

The young midfielder flourished under Pochettino making his huge potential evident and in spite of missing out due to an injury for a major part of the Argentine’s last season, Ward-Prowse racked up 7 assists. The story ended abruptly as Spurs snapped up Pochettino in the 2015/16 season.

Now at the age of 28 where he has arguably peaked at the South Coat, it would wise of him to bid farewell and stay up in the Premier League, joining one of the top sides. And the Chelsea situation could seem to be rather appealing.