GRAHAM Potter is hoping a bit of “football karma” will help former Saints skipper James Ward-Prowse finally move alongside David Beckham as a Premier League record holder.

Ward-Prowse’s tally of 17 goals direct from free-kicks is just one shy of Beckham’s top-flight record of 18.

Ward-Prowse is yet to score one for West Ham, with his last successful effort coming for Southampton against Potter’s Chelsea side more than two years ago.

The 30 year old Saints academy graduate comes up against his old side on Saturday, and Hammers boss Potter is fancying him to end his drought.

“James will be the first to say it’s not about him and the record, although we hope that he can get it,” Potter said at his pre-match press conference.

James Ward-Prowse left Saints in the hopes of returning to the England squad.James Ward-Prowse left Saints in the hopes of returning to the England squad.

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“It would be nice for us if there was a bit of football karma and he gets it on Saturday against Southampton.”

Ward-Prowse was signed for West Ham by David Moyes in August 2023 but was loaned to Nottingham Forest at the start of the season.

He has not taken to the pitch against Saints since leaving the club - he remained unused in Forest's 3-2 in January.

Potter recalled the former England international shortly after replacing Julen Lopetegui in January, and he is once again a regular in central midfield.

“I’ve been impressed,” added Potter. “He’s come from his loan spell where he wasn’t playing so much, but his level in terms of his training and how he acts every day is of a top standard.

“That’s really helpful to the team and really helpful for the environment we want to create here.

“In midfield, he brings a balance, a quality, and his set-pieces are very dangerous for us. He’s still getting to know how the team functions better and better, but I’ve really enjoyed working with him.

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“He’s not a ranter and raver, but he’s a quiet leader who leads by example. Every day, he gives his absolute best and trains like it’s the last day of his career.

"He’s a fantastic role model for other players. He brings a calmness and an experience and a humility which is really impressive.”

West Ham will check on right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who needs an injection in a toe injury, ahead of the Saints match.

Winger Crysencio Summerville is still some weeks away from a return after suffering a torn hamstring in January.