“A Step Forward” – The Significance of Wharton for Crystal Palace

Wharton: A Young Talent Shaping Palace’s Success

As Crystal Palace gears up for a vital clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, all eyes are on 21-year-old midfielder Adam Wharton. His pivotal role in helping the Eagles clinch the FA Cup against Manchester City earlier this year and secure victory in the Community Shield over Liverpool cannot be understated.

Oliver Glasner’s squad stands just two matches away from a potential Wembley return in the EFL Cup, but they first need to overcome Premier League leaders Arsenal in the quarter-finals. Retaining Wharton during the upcoming January transfer window will be crucial if Palace aims to build on their recent triumphs and establish themselves in European competitions.

Thomas Hitzlsperger, a pundit on Match of the Day, previously highlighted Wharton’s composure, stating, “He’s just a young player, yet he displays remarkable poise. He’s not even reached 50 Premier League games yet.”

He further elaborated on Wharton’s influence: “His role is central, and despite his lack of experience, he positively impacts the team’s performance. As a modern number six, he not only facilitates ball movement but also excels in regaining possession.”

His positional awareness is noteworthy, as he maneuvers around the pitch with ease, often jogging rather than sprinting but always being where he needs to be—effectively eluding opponents attempting to dispossess him.

Following a 4-1 defeat to Leeds, Palace currently sits in eighth place in the Premier League, having dropped from fifth, but remains only three points behind fourth-placed Chelsea. They have entered two-legged playoffs in the Conference League and will depend on Wharton’s capabilities to maintain their European aspirations.

Phil McNulty, BBC Sport’s chief football writer, refers to Wharton as a “stylish, fiercely competitive midfielder” who has consistently managed game tempo with his smooth style.

It’s hardly surprising that he’s attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, and the two Manchester teams. Let’s take a closer look at Wharton and how he stands amongst other midfielders in the Premier League.

How Does Wharton Compare to Other Premier League Midfielders?

Wharton showcased his skills despite a 3-0 loss to Manchester City in December, where he led the match in tackle wins, totaling four. This performance aligns with his average of 2.2 tackles per game, showcasing his defensive prowess.

In addition to his tackling strength, he averages 2.1 interceptions per game, revealing his adeptness at reading the game. He nearly scored on several occasions, hitting the post and missing two clear chances. While his defensive skills are solid, it indicates that he needs to sharpen his attacking instincts.

Currently, Wharton has logged 1,213 minutes of play in the Premier League this season, making 15 appearances. His average of 6.53 progressive passes per match and 0.74 chances created from open play, with an expected assist rate of 0.22, demonstrates his importance to the team.

Among his teammates, he leads in attempted passes in the final third with 170 and is second for through balls with eight. He closely trails team leader Yeremy Pino, who has created 21 chances.

In broader comparisons with fellow Premier League midfielders, Wharton achieves a 50% dribble success rate, ranking just behind Elliot Anderson (52.5%) and Declan Rice (57.14%). Rice takes the lead in progressive carries with an average of 11.27, with Wharton trailing at 4.8.

Although Wharton may rank lower for total passes and passing accuracy under intense pressure, he excels in forward passing metrics and is noted for trying to deliver line-breaking passes effectively.

Defensively, he stands second among his peers in interceptions (1.1) and fourth in possession recoveries while also ranking third in tackles made and duels won.

Undoubtedly regarded as a promising player for the future, Wharton is proving he can compete with the best in the Premier League.

Does Wharton Secure a Place in Tuchel’s England Squad?

Sheffield United’s former goalkeeper Shay Given, now a pundit on Match of the Day, commended Wharton’s intelligence on the field: “He’s a player who doesn’t require excessive coaching; he grasps the nuances of his position effortlessly.” Given recognizes that Wharton has the foresight to anticipate plays before they occur and believes he is among the most talented midfielders in the league.

He stated, “Does he earn a spot on the World Cup plane? I reckon he undoubtedly deserves it.”