Adam Wharton’s swift ascent to England’s Euro 2024 squad has surprised many, but it was a plan set in motion two years ago in his brother’s kitchen. At 18, Wharton had just signed his first professional contract with Blackburn. Joined by his older brother Scott and their agent James Featherstone, they mapped out his ambitious goals.
“You have to set goals,” Featherstone recalled. “Adam always had the talent, but he needed to believe he could achieve greatness. We set specific metrics and he committed fully.”
Featherstone watched in awe as Wharton made a stellar England debut against Bosnia and Herzegovina. With Wharton’s father, John, in the stands, it was a proud moment that capped a whirlwind four months since his debut for Crystal Palace after transferring from Blackburn.
“Football moves fast, but this has been incredible,” Featherstone shared on Instagram, reminiscing about the night in Scott’s kitchen. “Adam’s journey from his Palace debut in February to his England debut in June is astonishing.”
The Guardian reports that Wharton, who joined Blackburn at six and excelled at cricket, had already shown promise. A viral video from the 2015 Utilita Kids Cup highlighted his early talent. His performance at Wembley helped him earn a spot in Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man squad.
Former Blackburn defender Daniel Ayala recalled Wharton’s early training sessions. “He always had time on the ball, even under pressure. He was different,” Ayala said. “Adam’s laid-back off the pitch, but his performance is relentless.”
Scott’s presence in Blackburn’s first team eased Adam’s transition. Ayala noted, “Scott often had to encourage Adam to be more aggressive. It’s why he’s advanced so quickly.”
Premier League scouts soon noticed Wharton’s talent. After impressive showings for England’s Under-19s and Under-20s, Crystal Palace made their move. Sporting director Dougie Freedman’s vision, showcasing young talents like Marc Guéhi, Michael Olise, and Eberechi Eze, convinced Wharton to join.
Despite a tough start at Palace, where he conceded a goal on debut, Wharton bounced back. Featherstone praised his resilience, saying, “Many would have crumbled, but Adam wanted the ball again right away.”
Now, Blackburn stands to gain significantly if Wharton makes a competitive senior international appearance. Celebrating his selection, Wharton remains humble. “He’s proud but grounded,” Featherstone said. “Adam’s words to me were: ‘It just keeps getting better.’”
Ayala celebrated his former teammate’s success. “Adam’s rise to the England team is incredible. No one saw this coming, not even him. It shows his true potential.”
For more on Euro 2024 and Adam Wharton’s journey, stay tuned.
