Pep Guardiola Hails Southampton Star as Best Free Kick Taker in The World Ahead of Messi

• James Ward Prowse is among the top free kick takers in Premier League history
• Pep Guardiola is wary of the England man’s abilities, and he hailed him as the best free kick taker in the world
• Southampton host runaway league leaders Manchester City on Saturday, January 22

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has hailed James Ward Prowse as the best free kick taker in world football at the moment.

The Spaniard’s bold sentiments came ahead of his side’s Premier League clash against the Saints at the Saint Mary’s stadium on Saturday, January 22.

Only last weekend, Ward-Prowse smashed in an impressive 35-yard free kick against Wolves, taking his set-piece tally in the Premier League to 12 goals.

His tally takes him level with Thierry Henry and Gianfranco Zola, with only David Beckham being ahead of him in terms of set-piece goals.

Ahead of the visit to Southapton, Guardiola spoke on Ward-Prowse’s technique on set pieces, saying:

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“He is the best taker I have ever seen, right now in the world,”

"No player is a better taker than Ward-Prowse.

“A guy who adapts in the same position, he's a team player, great quality without the ball, with the ball, understanding the game.

“Set pieces and corners is exceptional. We need to pay more attention.”

As bold as Guardiola’s sentiments were, the gaffer might actually have a point as a compilation of Ward Prowse’s free kicks have gone viral online and the England midfielder is quite a talent in that department.

One of his most memorable performances was when he scored two free-kicks in one game, against Aston Villa in 2020.

He has also scored from free-kicks against the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham, Newcastle and Crystal Palace.

Spurs close to Traore deal

In transfer news, Tottenham are close to agreeing on a deal with Wolverhampton Wanderers for winger Adama Traore.

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Spurs' director Paratici has always been a huge fan of Traore and has been wanting to sign him since last summer.

Traore’s move to North London seems to be edging closer and reports now claim a fee in the region of £20million is close to being agreed.