David Beckham Lovers

By Thom Drake

PUBLISHED: 10:01 EST, 17 November 2013 | UPDATED: 10:01 EST, 17 November 2013

England Under 21 international James Ward-Prowse has said he is flattered by recent comparisons to David Beckham made by Hull manager Steve Bruce.

In their European championship qualifier against Finland Under 21s on Thursday, Ward-Prowse whipped in an inch-perfect cross that Michael Keane poked into the back of the net.

When asked about comparisons to the former England captain, Ward-Prowse said: ' He is a boyhood hero of mine.

'He is someone I have modelled my attributes on - especially his free-kick taking and his set-piece delivery. I often stop after training with Rickie Lambert and practise.'

Ward-Prowse has been an effective element of Southampton's impressive start to the season playing both on the right and in the middle.

Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez both won their first caps for England against chile, and although neither will necessarily be happy with their performance, it gives Roy Hodgson more options should he need them.

Back at club level, Mauricio Pochettino has increased the fitness of his players and got Southampton playing at a much faster tempo.

Ward-Prowse added: 'The manager has given everyone confidence and belief that we can win games no matter who's in front of us in the league or cup.'

'Adam Lallana has been a massive role model for me at the club. When I was younger, he was a role model in terms of his path to the first team, his loyalty to the club and the way he came through.'