James Ward-Prowse says he's embraced playing the role of 'Mr. Nasty' for Southampton.

The tenacious midfielder has been assigned to track some star opposition players this season, including Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha.

When the two sides met in January, Ward-Prowse opened his pocket in front of the Selhurst Park crowd, hinting Zaha was inside of it.

Asked if become a villain on the pitch excites him, he told the Daily Echo: "Definitely.

"It's something a bit different to maybe what people expect and see on the face of things.

"But it's become a part of my all-round game now and it's something I have to include as it helps me in my performances."