Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse will be ‘very frustrated’ that he wasn’t chosen to go to the World Cup, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: England’s squad announcement

Last week, Gareth Southgate named his final 26-man squad to represent England at the tournament, and it may have come as a surprise that the 28-year-old’s name wasn’t on the list.

The Three Lions boss instead decided to call up Conor Gallagher from Premier League rivals Chelsea, even though he only has four caps to his name compared to the Southampton star’s 11.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s comments

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke insisted that Ward-Prowse will be devastated to have not been picked for England, but believes that the Saints captain won’t be tempted to move elsewhere to bolster his chances of further international call-ups as a result.

He said: “James Ward-Prowse will obviously be very frustrated to miss out on another tournament for England.

“Some people will suggest that because he’s not at a bigger club in the Premier League, it’s hurt his chances of making Gareth Southgate’s final squad, but he’s been very loyal to Southampton.”

The Verdict: Wrong decision by Southgate

Gallagher is a very talented player who has broken into the Chelsea first-team following his return from a hugely successful loan spell at Crystal Palace, but the decision by Southgate to select him over Ward-Prowse is the wrong one.

The Saints maestro is the more experienced option with nearly 400 appearances for his club, and would bring leadership qualities being captain at St Mary's, not to mention that he scored two goals during the World Cup qualifiers for England.

Ward-Prowse is also very useful when it comes to set pieces and penalties, but Southgate will be missing out on the luxury of having this available to him following his surprising choice.

One hopes that it doesn't come back to bite the England boss if his team exit after losing a penalty shoot-out...