Adam Wharton finding his rhythm at Crystal Palace as suitors gather

"For all the milestones Adam Wharton has ticked off since he signed for Crystal Palace in January last year there is one he has yet to celebrate: scoring a goal. It took only four months for the midfielder to earn a place in England's Euro 2024 squad thanks to some scintillating performances for the club, although Wharton didn't play a minute at the tournament after making his debut in a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina."

"But Palace supporters have still not been treated to Wharton's trademark backflip goal celebration, honed on a trampoline in his parents' back garden in Blackburn. Having joined his home town club's academy at six, Wharton showcased his acrobatic ability when he scored his first goal for Blackburn against Birmingham 12 years later and he scored three more in his 44 appearances for the Lancashire club."

"What Wharton has lacked in goals he has made up for in other areas. He started as a No 10 in Blackburn's academy but has thrived since being converted to a deeper role. The most striking thing about Wharton is his game intelligence and considerable self-belief, although the player who his father rather harshly described as a bit of a loner could never be accused of being arrogant."

Adam Wharton signed for Crystal Palace in January last year and has achieved numerous milestones but has not yet scored for Palace. He earned a place in England's Euro 2024 squad within four months after strong club performances but did not play at the tournament following a debut in a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina. He won a second cap last month after starring in Palace's FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. Wharton learned a backflip celebration on a trampoline, joined Blackburn's academy at six, scored four goals in 44 appearances for Blackburn, and moved to Palace for an initial £18m. He transitioned from a No 10 to a deeper midfield role and is noted for game intelligence, self-belief and a tendency to look for forward passes.

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