Wharton Key to Palace's Conference League Triumph
England manager Thomas Tuchel sparked considerable discussion with his World Cup squad announcement last week. However, Adam Wharton's outstanding display during Crystal Palace's historic European success has intensified debate regarding his exclusion.
The 22-year-old midfielder was instrumental in Palace's 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano in the Conference League final, securing the club's first-ever European trophy.
Despite this, Wharton will not be part of England's squad for the upcoming summer tournament. Tuchel selected midfielders Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Jordan Henderson, Eberechi Eze, Jude Bellingham, and Morgan Rogers instead.
Former England international Glenn Hoddle expressed surprise at Wharton's omission both before and after the final.
"A little bit surprised," he told TNT Sports prior to the 1-0 win in Leipzig.
"I love the way he looks forward and passes. He can hit killer balls, balls that take the whole defence out with one pass.
"I am not sure we have got that many who can do that from a deep-lying position on a consistent level. So definitely my eyebrows went up when I saw he wasn't there."
Following the match, Hoddle added:
"This is the quality that we have got. I would have had him in the squad. He is a wonderful footballer.
"He is a top professional. He could easily play for England but which one [midfielder] shouldn't be playing?"
Joleon Lescott, former England and Manchester City defender, also commented on Wharton's professionalism and mental strength.
"He hasn't let that decision impact his performance.
"He is a top professional as well as mentally strong enough to deal with setbacks and to cope with that. Like I said before the game, he could easily play for England."
How Wharton Helped Palace to Glory
Wharton was the clear recipient of the man of the match award due to his comprehensive performance.
His ability to progress the ball from deep positions and help Palace maintain possession in Rayo Vallecano's half was vital to the Eagles' success.
While there was an element of fortune in the winning goal—Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla should have deflected Wharton's shot away but instead allowed it to reach Jean-Philippe Mateta—the midfielder's ambition and drive to attempt the effort were decisive.
Wharton also nearly provided an assist with a precise cross to Tyrick Mitchell late in the first half, though Mitchell's header went wide.
Defensively, Wharton was significant as well. He was effective in aerial duels and disrupted Rayo's play, preventing excessive pressure on Palace's defence.
He recorded the highest number of touches and completed the most passes into the final third during the match.
This all-around midfield display was delivered on one of the biggest stages in Palace's history and is likely to attract interest from major clubs seeking midfield reinforcements this summer.
'There Was a Spot for Wharton'
Tuchel's decision to omit Wharton from the 26-man World Cup squad surprised many observers.
Although Palace endured a challenging domestic season, finishing 15th in the Premier League and exiting the FA Cup against non-League Macclesfield, their European success was historic, with Wharton playing a key role.
This standout performance in the Conference League final further raised questions about his absence from the England squad.
One of the most notable and unexpected selections was Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson, aged 35, chosen over Wharton.
While Henderson's experience was likely a factor, comparisons of their recent performances suggest Wharton may have offered more on the pitch.
Hoddle remarked, "I understand why the manager has taken Henderson but for me if he is going to do that kind of job, take him as a coach.
"Take him as a player-coach if you like but I think there was a spot there for Wharton."
The rise of Kobbie Mainoo at Manchester United has also influenced squad dynamics. Mainoo, who was sidelined by manager Ruben Amorim for much of the season, was not involved under Tuchel until March friendlies, but has since established himself in the squad.
Both Wharton and Mainoo were part of England's Euro 2024 squad; however, Wharton did not feature in any matches, whereas Mainoo started all four knockout games, including the final.
With Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson expected to start, and Bellingham, Eze, and Rogers also included, Tuchel's midfield options are strong.
Nevertheless, Wharton's exclusion remains a contentious topic, given his evident quality and recent performances.
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