Midfielder, Adam Wharton described his place in the England squad for UEFA Euro 2024 as a “bonus” to a strong season.
Wharton had received his maiden senior call-up in England’s preliminary squad for the tournament, but impressed enough in his debut as a substitute during a 3-0 friendly win over Bosnia & Herzegovina to secure his spot in the squad.
“It’s a surreal feeling,” commented Wharton as he participated in a media interview following England’s second training session ahead of their first group match against Serbia on Sunday 16 June at 9pm CEST (8pm UK Time).
Wharton though hadn’t expected to even be in the squad after just four months in England’s top-flight following his move to Crystal Palace from Blackburn in February, which was quickly followed by a change of manager as Oliver Glasner replaced Roy Hodgson weeks later.
“Honestly, I wasn’t really expecting it. I’d obviously only just gone into the Premier League, so I wasn’t expecting anything and it was more sort of a bonus if I did get in, so I’m delighted.”
The 20 year-old however has iterated that despite his rapid rise, he “… just want to keep playing football and get better.”
Wharton isn’t the only midfielder making his major tournament bow as Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo is in same position, but he is aware that there are “unbelievable” midfielders like Declan Rice, Conor Gallagher and Jude Bellingham who can “step up and perform to get the result we need.”
Reflecting upon being in the squad environment despite his tender age, Wharton is grateful to just be part of the team and fulfilling his ambitions, having already played for his hometown club – Blackburn then in the top-flight with Palace.
“It’s just a dream come true. Every kid who grows up playing football wants to play in the Premier League and play for their country.
“I got to play for the team that I supported [Blackburn], and I really enjoyed that, and then it’s just continued into the Premier League and now here.
“It’s all been very fast but I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Wharton however has refused to get complacent in his performances as he described his debut as an “alright” display, but admitted that he doesn’t mull over each performance egotistically as he believes that he can constantly improve in every game.
“I never really look at my performances and think ‘oh, it’s amazing’ as there’s always certain bits that you can improve on but for me, I was just happy to make my debut and play the way I did but there’s always room for improvement.”
Wharton’s father meanwhile described his son as a “loner” in an interview with BBC Radio Lancashire but Wharton felt that his father’s description was “a bit harsh”, considering that his parents “were probably happier than I was when I shared the news,” of his call-up.
Wharton however credited his family for his rise up the footballing ladder and support on and off the pitch.
“They’ve been massive for me, I’ve got two brothers who I grew up with, both older, so playing with them in the garden when they probably beat me up a few times – that all helps getting used to the physical side of the game.
“We’re a sporty family and very supportive and that definitely helped me growing up and then continuing to support me even when I’ve not been playing in the youth set up.
“I wouldn’t be here without them.”
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