Why do you need them to show he is competent ? Every blasted warden is competent . They don't need to show off really....I mean , if they survive the rite that speak volume already .
Well some peoples want to chat the warden up , me first ! and the game isn't about the warden..so he will not get the spotlight . That is why it is soo hard to incorporate previous hero in a new game where you are playing a new hero .
No, they don't need to show off. But I don't want them helpless either.
Plus, the Warden is more competent than most Wardens. Of course the Warden won't get the spotlight of the main story, but if he's involved in a sidequest the Warden shouldn't be belittled. They should be able to handle themselves in whatever role they're playing, even if they desire assistance. They should be able to put in a good word with the people they knew, and maybe help us with a few things when they aren't too busy doing their own thing.
The Warden might be with Alistair, Morrigan, or whoever, and might just end up working with those characters for the most part and serving their goals.
If the Warden went with Morrigan and had a child with her, he should probably be mentioned to have done so. He should also probably defend either Morrigan or the Old God Child if either is attacked, and generally be involved in raising/training the boy.
There are a variety of roles they could play, though obviously I'm more inclined to imagine the roles my Warden might play.