FORMER Saints boss Gordon Strachan admitted he shows clips of “real talent” James Ward-Prowse to his academy youngsters at Dundee.
The 65-year-old former Scotland international midfielder and manager has been technical director at the club he emerged from since 2017.
Strachan, who managed Saints between 2001-2004 and was known for his fiery temper, is one of Scotland’s finest football exports.
He guided Saints to the FA Cup final in 2003, before eventual defeat to Arsenal, and took a 16-month hiatus from management after resigning the following year.
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Strachan, speaking to Football Odds and Betting, now admits he shows clips of Ward-Prowse to Dundee’s best talents in order to aid their learning.
“James Ward-Prowse doesn't just perform when the ball is static, he can deliver moving balls too,” Strachan said.
“I remember he delivered two crosses against Tottenham recently that nobody saw coming.
“I show that kind of thing to the youngsters at Dundee. James is now and again involved in our academy learning at Dundee.”
Strachan’s comments come after Ward-Prowse delivered a match-winning performance in the club’s first win at Everton since 1997.
The 28-year-old England international scored both goals, including an excellent control and finish from inside the area and another direct free-kick, to come from behind.
Ward-Prowse dragged himself one closer (16) to David Beckham’s all-time Premier League record of scoring from 18 direct free-kicks.
Strachan continued: “David Beckham played in a different position and with far better players, that's for sure.
“Ward-Prowse has talent. Real talent. I think James is one of those players that, when he packs in football, he'll be able to say 'I have no regrets.”
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