In one of the most remarkable ascents in recent English football history, Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton has been named in Gareth Southgate's final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 after just four months of top-flight experience.
From Championship to International Stage in Record Time
The 20-year-old sensation, who joined Palace from Blackburn Rovers in a £22 million deal during the January transfer window, has taken the Premier League by storm with his composed performances in the heart of midfield. His rapid development has caught the eye of England selectors, earning him a spot ahead of more established names.
Wharton's inclusion comes as England prepares for their opening Euro 2024 fixture against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on June 16, with the young midfielder now in contention to feature on international football's biggest stage.
Tuchel's Bayern Munich Also Circling
Meanwhile, in a further testament to Wharton's extraordinary rise, former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel - recently departed from Bayern Munich - has identified the Palace starlet as a primary transfer target. According to reports, Tuchel had extensively scouted Wharton with plans to bring him to the German giants this summer.
Although Tuchel's exit from Bayern has complicated this potential move, the German manager's strong interest underscores Wharton's rapidly growing reputation among Europe's elite football minds.
Palace's Midfield Gem Outshines Established Stars
Wharton's selection represents a significant achievement for both player and club, demonstrating how quickly talent can be recognised and rewarded in modern football. His technical ability, vision and maturity beyond his years have made him one of the Premier League's most exciting discoveries this season.
The Crystal Palace academy product now joins established stars like Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice in England's midfield options, completing an astonishing journey from Championship football to international tournament in less than half a year.
As England fans eagerly anticipate their team's Euro 2024 campaign, Wharton's unexpected inclusion adds an exciting new dimension to Southgate's squad and represents one of the feel-good stories of the tournament build-up.
