Glenn Hoddle has strongly criticised Thomas Tuchel's decision to leave Adam Wharton out of England's World Cup squad, following the midfielder's standout performance in Crystal Palace's historic Conference League triumph.
Wharton, 22, was a surprising omission from the Three Lions' roster for the upcoming World Cup, despite another impressive season at Selhurst Park. The former Blackburn Rovers midfielder, who has earned four England caps, helped Palace secure the FA Cup last season and qualify for European competition. The disappointment of missing the World Cup was momentarily set aside as Wharton played a key role in Palace's Conference League victory, the club's first European trophy.
Match Decisive Performance
After a cagey, goalless first half, Oliver Glasner's side broke the deadlock in the 51st minute through Jean-Philippe Mateta, who tapped in after Wharton's long-range strike was saved. That goal proved decisive as La Liga side Rayo Vallecano could not respond, with Palace's win securing their place in next season's Europa League.
Wharton was one of the best players on the pitch in Leipzig, less than a week after being snubbed by Tuchel. His omission was particularly controversial given that Tuchel selected 35-year-old Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson, whom Hoddle believes could have been taken to the United States simply as a coach.
Hoddle's Verdict
Speaking on TNT Sports, England legend and former manager Hoddle said: 'I was a little bit surprised, yeah. I think he suits three in midfield because he doesn't get around the pitch that quickly, so that might be a burden against him, but certainly for me, I love the way he looks forward and passes. He can hit the killer balls, those balls that take the whole defence out with one pass. I'm not sure England have got many in the deep-lying positions who can do that on a consistent level. So I raised an eyebrow when I saw he wasn't in the squad. I understand why the manager has taken Jordan Henderson, but if you want him to do that type of job, just take him as a coach. There was a spot there for Adam Wharton.'
Support from Former Teammate
Ex-Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward also believes Wharton deserved a place in Tuchel's World Cup squad. 'Adam certainly possesses enough quality and ability to be in the team,' he told The Sun. 'What he brings to the team, how he plays and his intelligence, I think he'd certainly slot in there and be absolutely fine. Obviously, it's a very tough and competitive pool. I'm sure there'll be disappointment, but also the recognition of being so close will only bear him on to go and kick on to achieve more. I have no doubt that he will have a very fruitful career in an England shirt as well. When he's on the pitch, he sees things in a different way. His ability to break the lines, his ability to beat people and find those killer passes and not turn away from making those passes is what sets him apart.'
England's Midfield Options
Alongside Henderson, Tuchel has selected midfielders Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, and Kobbie Mainoo for the World Cup. Crystal Palace lost key midfielder Eberechi Eze last summer and former captain Marc Guehi in January, but those departures have not halted their impressive progress.
Mateta's Celebration
Speaking after the Conference League triumph, Palace goalscorer Mateta said: 'I feel fantastic! I feel fantastic! We did it! First time in Europe and we did it. Now I just want to celebrate. We gave everything. I told you about the intensity they will have and I am tired right now because I gave everything. That's why we won today. I am always with the fans. They have supported me a lot as a player. They are always behind us. We did it for them too.'
