June 16th 2024.
As the year 2024 began, the name Adam Wharton was virtually unknown. But just a few months later, he became the talk of the town as he was selected to play for England in their opening game of the Euro 2024 against Serbia on Sunday night. It was a dream come true for the 20-year-old Crystal Palace player, who was chosen by coach Gareth Southgate to be a part of the 26-man squad for the tournament.
This decision came as a surprise to many, as Wharton had only made his debut for the Three Lions a week ago, playing for 28 minutes in their 3-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was a remarkable achievement for someone who was relatively unknown just a few months ago, especially considering the competition he faced from established players like James Maddison and Jordan Henderson.
Wharton's journey to this point had been nothing short of incredible. He made his senior debut for his childhood club Blackburn Rovers at the age of 18, playing alongside his older brother Scott. He quickly became a fan favorite with his impressive performances, making 22 appearances in all competitions. However, his team's late dip in form saw them miss out on promotion to the Premier League.
But Wharton's talent had not gone unnoticed, and he soon caught the attention of clubs in the top flight. Despite interest from Chelsea, he ended up signing for Crystal Palace in January 2024 for a fee of £22.5 million. His debut for the Eagles was marred by a 4-1 defeat to Brighton, where he was directly at fault for one of the goals. But he quickly bounced back and went on to become a regular starter under new manager Oliver Glasner.
Under Glasner's guidance, Palace's season turned around, and they finished in 10th place, their best ever Premier League finish. Wharton played a crucial role in this success, with standout performances against top teams like Liverpool, West Ham, and Manchester United. His ability to link up with his teammates and his defensive work were praised by fans and critics alike.
Wharton's impressive form also caught the eye of England coach Gareth Southgate, who included him in the preliminary squad for Euro 2024. While some may have been surprised by this decision, it was well-deserved based on Wharton's performances on the pitch. His lack of experience at the senior international level was not a concern for Southgate, who saw potential in the young midfielder.
Wharton's journey from an unknown player to a key member of the England squad is nothing short of remarkable. And as he prepares to represent his country at the highest level, he will undoubtedly be a crucial player for the Three Lions, especially in the crucial defensive midfield position. His partnership with fellow midfielder Declan Rice will be a key factor in England's success at the tournament, and Wharton's tenacity and skill will no doubt be on full display.
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