- Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton misses World Cup
- England boss Thomas Tuchel omits midfielder
- Eagles star should have been on the plane
Adam Wharton missing out on England’s World Cup squad is the worst decision Thomas Tuchel has made. While omitting the likes of Harry Maguire and Lewis Hall are also shocking calls, Wharton’s snub is unforgivable.
One line on social media that summed up Tuchel’s mistake was that ‘Spain builds a team around Wharton.’ That’s not hyperbole; that’s a credible analysis of a player whose through-ball and progressive passing statistics have him competing with the very best in Europe.
When news of the 22-year-old missing out on the England squad broke, it felt like a massive kick in the teeth for Palace. Instead of arguably the best ball-playing midfielder in the country, Tuchel turned to an over-the-hill Jordan Henderson, who has played 38 minutes worth of football since March.
Tuchel’s terrible decision
Wharton is another English gem who, unfortunately, has been a victim of big-club bias. If he were playing for Liverpool, who he’s linked with, this season, he’d be on the plane with the Three Lions.
The Eagles star has been a mainstay in Oliver Glasner’s team and pulled the strings in the middle of the park. There’s a reason even Real Madrid have reportedly had their sights set on the former Blackburn Rovers man.
Wharton offers a different profile to that of a Kobbie Mainoo and Elliot Anderson. His manager, Glasner, perfectly explained why he deserved to be at the World Cup:
“With his one-touch passes and line-breaking passes, I think he’s one of the best – not just in England, but in the world. If you want this kind of quality, you pick Adam.”
Wharton can’t do anything more than put in the decisive performances that have helped Palace reach the UEFA Conference League final. Unfortunately, missing out on the World Cup only seems to end one way.
An unfortunate aftermath
Representing your country at the World Cup is the biggest dream of any footballer. To showcase your ability on the world stage is the highlight of your career.
Wharton should not only have been included in Tuchel’s squad but also have been under consideration to start. He ticks so many boxes for tournament football, helping see games out while ensuring his team dominate possession.
A summer transfer has felt likely with each passing month and this might just be the tip of the iceberg. At such a young age, Wharton might think he needs to make the move to a Champions League club to be rewarded with more international opportunities.
