Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse has struggled to work his way into Mark Hughes' plans since the Welshman was appointed in March, and the club should look to loan him out to West Bromwich Albion in order to reignite his stuttering career.

What's the word, then?

James Ward-Prowse celebrates for Southampton

Well, the popular academy graduate was seen as one of Saints' next big things when he made his debut at the age of 16 in 2011, but despite making more than 200 appearances in all competitions for the south coast outfit since then he has struggled to nail down a regular spot in the starting XI.

The one-time England international has only started three competitive matches since Hughes took the helm and has begun their last five Premier League matches on the substitutes' bench – including failing to get on the pitch in the goalless draw against Burnley at St Mary's on Sunday.

Southampton rejected a loan bid from Watford for Ward-Prowse earlier this month, but now they should send him out on a short-term loan to the Championship to help him try and find his feet again.

Why West Brom?

Even though he made his Saints debut almost seven years ago, it is still unclear to fans and seemingly Hughes, who must offload Shane Long and Sam Gallagher and sign a 6ft 8in free agent to be his new Peter Crouch, alike what the 23-year-old's strongest and best position is.

He has played in a variety of different roles for the south coast outfit, but it was in the middle of the park that he made his name with the various England youth sides, and that is exactly where he could fit in at the Hawthorns.

[brid autoplay="true" video="255885" player="12034" title="Watch Southampton's opening fixtures for the 201819 Premier League season"]

Darren Moore's men are known for playing good football and they need a new midfield partner for Jake Livermore with Chris Brunt currently filling in there, and a short-term deal for Ward-Prowse would be a move that works for all parties as the star looks to force his way into Mark Hughes' plans by proving he has more in his locker than simply being good at set pieces.