Adam Wharton reflects on ‘surreal’ rise to England’s Euro 2024 squad
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Adam Wharton is finding it hard to believe his rapid rise from being a new player in Blackburn to being selected for England’s Euro 2024 team in less than two years.
The midfielder who is just 20 years old is presently the second youngest member in Gareth Southgate's team in Germany and he owns the smallest amount of experience at the highest level.
Wharton changed his childhood team from Blackburn and left the Championship to join Crystal Palace, a team in the Premier League, at the beginning of this year. He immediately adapted well to his new team and performed impressively in the south of London.
The center midfielder was recognized for his efforts and received an invitation to join England's training team in June. He put in enough work to impress Southgate and secure a spot in the 26-man squad for the upcoming Euros.
Wharton expressed that he feels surreal about the situation. He didn't expect to receive such an opportunity, since he has recently become part of the Premier League. Therefore, he is extremely happy about it. Being able to do what he loves on such a grand stage is an unparalleled feeling.
Wharton's first appearance for England Under-21s was not until March. He later made his senior debut as a substitute in a friendly against Bosnia at St James’ Park earlier this month.
When asked to describe how he feels about going from his initial game in the Carabao Cup starting against Hartlepool for Rovers to now being part of Southgate's team in Germany, he found it difficult to express in words. He simply stated that it feels like a dream come true.
All children who grow up playing soccer dream of playing in the Premier League and representing their nation.
"I had the opportunity to play for the squad that I've always rooted for and I thoroughly relished it."
Ever since transitioning to the Premier League, the rapid pace of events has persisted, and at present, I find myself here. Despite the swiftness of it all, I wouldn't prefer it any differently.
Wharton is making a concerted effort to improve and build upon his successful debut for England. During his first game, he played remarkably well, completing all 36 of his passes and giving a glimpse of his potential. In addition, he presented himself confidently during his debut press conference at England's Blankenhain Castle.
Wharton was thankful for his family's backing, but he didn't seem thrilled when asked about his father John's comment labeling him as "somewhat of an introvert."
The midfielder from Palace shared that he grew up with two older brothers and used to play with them in their garden. He also mentioned that he played with one of them, Scott, while at Rovers. Although he admitted that his brothers had beaten him up a few times in the garden, he believes that it helped him adapt to the physical demands of the game.
My father is a huge soccer enthusiast and he provides me with plenty of recommendations, even up to this day. They have consistently backed me up, even during the times when I wasn't a part of the junior squad, I wouldn't have made it here without their support.
After Wharton was informed about his father's remarks, he replied, "I believe that calling me a loner is too severe. I may not have numerous friends, but I prefer to keep to myself, and it has always been my preference."
"I agree with that. I reside independently in London, hence, I'm not always socializing with my pals and engaging in various activities. To be a football player, it's essential to avoid going out on weekends during your youth, and that requires sacrificing certain things."
I wouldn't label myself as a solitary figure, yet neither am I the most extroverted personality you'll ever come across. Entering a crowd of unfamiliar individuals and making a scene is not my cup of tea. Rather, I prefer to maintain a low profile and stay within myself.
