JAMES Ward-Prowse’s free-kick against Wolves was the best his manager has ever seen from the England international, with Ralph Hasenhuttl labelling it "world-class."

The 30-yard strike means the Saints academy graduate now has scored the second most free-kicks in Premier League history, with only David Beckham himself converting more free-kicks.

After it flew past Jose Sa in the Wolves goal, Saints were instantly galvanised as they chased an equaliser – with the goal only counting as small consolation in an eventual 3-1 defeat to Wolves.

Despite the overall disappointment of the result, Hasenhuttl shared his delight at the goal, saying “Prowse’s free-kick - I mean, world-class, you don't have to speak about it.

“I've seen a lot of good ones from him, but this is by far the best one I've seen from him.

“Unbelievable from this distance against this goalkeeper - one of the best in the league - to score like this. Amazing.”

When asked if Saints skipper Ward-Prowse had hit the free-kick more out of frustration and hope, Hasenhuttl replied: From that distance it is not possible to chip it over the wall, you have to do more power, more energy needed.

“It was the highlight of the evening.

“He has scored a few goals like this. It was an unbelievable hit.”

Unfortunately for Saints the goal was not enough to spark a turnaround, with Hasenhuttl believing it was a goal befitting a better result.

“I mean, it was the best I've seen from him, really, and it's a pity that we don't get anything.”