Adam Wharton was a member of a Blackburn Rovers team that was having trouble in the Championship in January.
Five months later, the 20-year-old is on his way to Germany for Euro 2024 after being named in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man England squad.
Wharton signed a £18 million (with add-ons to reach £22 million) contract with Crystal Palace from Blackburn on February 1st, 2018.
The youngster who was signed on transfer deadline day had a challenging debut. After coming on as a substitute against Palace’s rivals Brighton, the Seagulls took the lead 3-0 after he lost possession of the ball. The game was over 4-1.
But since then, Wharton has improved greatly, starting the last 15 games, recording three assists, and emerging as a vital player.
Oliver Glasner, the manager of Palace, stated prior to that game, “He’s stepped up so quick and is adapting to Premier League football and the intensity, the speed of the game.”
“It’s astounding how well he makes decisions, gets things started, and finds solutions with just a few taps.
“But we must also maintain our composure. I always hope for the best for my players, and since everyone wants to represent their own nation, it is better if there are more international matches and successful players.”
Wharton completed all 36 of his passes over his final 28 minutes on the field during Monday’s 3-0 friendly victory over the Three Lions. Southgate expressed his “great admiration” for the youthful midfield player.
The England manager described him as a “very calm boy.
