JAMES Ward-Prowse icon David Beckham has sent a message to the Saints captain after he took one step closer to his Premier League free-kick record at Brighton.

The 27-year-old midfielder scored his 14th direct free-kick to halve the deficit at Amex Stadium, before completing his brace in a comeback 2-2 draw.

It took Ward-Prowse to four short of Beckham’s all-time record, standing at 18, having scored four already this season alone.

In the process, he also eclipsed his best goals total for a Premier League season with nine – beating the eight he managed for Saints last season.

Daily Echo: James Ward-Prowse celebrates his free-kick goal at Brighton (Pic: PA)James Ward-Prowse celebrates his free-kick goal at Brighton (Pic: PA)

Ward-Prowse has been open in wanting to meet his footballing hero, Beckham, if and when he eventually breaks the master’s record.

"My main motivation is to meet my hero who I loved when I was growing up," Ward-Prowse said in an interview after the match.

"If I do get that record, hopefully he'll reach out - but there's a long way to go just yet."

Manchester United legend Beckham saw this interview on Sky Sports, and sent a public message to the England international.

He responded: “Looking forward to it mate. Another great one today. 4 more to go.”

Daily Echo: David Beckham's InstagramDavid Beckham's Instagram

Ward-Prowse has only four matches of the Premier League season left until the summer, facing Crystal Palace, Brentford, Liverpool and Leicester City.

It is almost a certainty he will have to wait until next campaign to finally catch the Three Lions legend, but he has time on his side with a contract at Saints until 2026.

Ward-Prowse has scored free-kick goals this season at Crystal Palace, Wolves, Leeds and now Brighton. The brace at Amex Stadium was his first of the campaign.