UMVA has learned that England legend Glenn Hoddle has blasted Thomas Tuchel’s decision to leave 22‑year‑old Adam Wharton out of the World Cup squad, despite the midfielder’s starring role in Crystal Palace’s historic European triumph.
Wharton, a former Blackburn Rovers midfielder with four England caps, helped Palace capture the Conference League – the club’s first ever trophy on the continent – and was a key figure in their FA Cup victory last season.
His omission shocked many, especially as Tuchel opted to include 35‑year‑old Brentford veteran Jordan Henderson, a player Hoddle suggested could have been taken merely as a coach.
“I was a little bit surprised,” Hoddle told TNT Sports. “He suits a three‑man midfield, but he doesn’t cover the pitch quickly enough. Still, I love the way he looks forward and passes.”
Hoddle praised Wharton’s ability to unleash “killer balls” that dismantle defenses with a single pass, noting England lack such deep‑lying playmakers on a consistent level.
Former Palace defender Joel Ward echoed the sentiment, insisting Wharton possesses the quality, intelligence, and composure to earn a place in the Three Lions’ camp.
In the Conference League final, Palace broke a goalless deadlock when Jean‑Philippe Mateta scored just after the hour mark, after Wharton’s long‑range effort was saved. The victory secured Palace’s spot in next season’s Europa League.
Wharton’s performance in Leipzig, less than a week after the snub, was hailed as one of the best on the pitch, underscoring the controversy surrounding his exclusion.
Tuchel’s final midfield roster includes Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze and Kobbie Mainoo, alongside Henderson, leaving a glaring gap where Wharton could have thrived.
