Southampton ace wants to play with loanee Downes next season

The former Tottenham Hotspur man singled out the West Ham loanee for praise following his winner in the 3-2 victory over Watford. 

Downes prodded in 99 minutes into the contest to keep Saints alive in the Championship's automatic promotion race.

The 25 year old recently admitted to the Daily Echo he does not know his future beyond this season's loan, having not spoken to West Ham. 

Walker-Peters, who himself faces an uncertain future with potential interest from teams elsewhere, hopes to keep him at the club.

He told the Daily Echo: "He was there and he's done it again for the team. He felt a bit disappointed with their second goal.

Kyle Walker-Peters spoke to media after the win over Watford (Image: Stuart Martin)

"So he's probably given it his all there and thankfully he's got the winner for us. He’s shown how much of a top player he is.

He's still young and whatever happens, I'd love to play with him next season. But that's out of my hands," Walker-Peters added.

"It's a really key position, especially in our team. The amount of demand on the number six on and off the ball is tough.

"He's been excellent this season. So we'll see what happens." 

Downes has made 30 appearances in the Championship for Saints this season, since joining on loan from his boyhood Hammers last summer. 

His winner versus Watford was his second goal of the campaign, netting his first at former side Swansea City in January.