England's football team, fondly known as the Three Lions, has been facing a significant challenge in their midfield. This issue was highlighted during their recent 1-1 draw against Denmark in Frankfurt. Both Declan Rice and Trent Alexander-Arnold struggled to hold their ground against the Danes, leaving fans frustrated and concerned about England's midfield strength.
The absence of Kalvin Phillips, who had an impressive Euro 2020 campaign but has since struggled after his move to Manchester City in 2022, is particularly felt. Gareth Southgate, England's manager, expressed his concerns about this void in his post-match interview.
Gareth Southgate, England manager, said:
"We know we don't have a natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips,"
Southgate's comments were met with criticism from supporters and pundits alike. They argued that there are players available who could perform such a role in England's midfield effectively.
Adam Wharton has proved himself
One player who believes he can fill this void is Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. He confidently asserts that he can step up as an option for England’s midfield.
Wharton transferred from Championship club Blackburn Rovers to Crystal Palace in February and had an exceptional second half of the 2023/24 season with the Eagles. His performance was so outstanding that it earned him a surprise call-up for the summer tournament held in Germany. Critics argue that Wharton could be just what Southgate needs to bolster his squad’s midfield strength given his recent form at club level.
Adam Wharton, Crystal Palace midfielder, said:
"I have got belief that no matter who, where, when I play football that I can affect a game. You have to think like that. If I think 'I can't handle this', then what am I doing here [at the European Championship]? The way I look at it now, I believe I can affect any game I play in so I am just making sure I am ready if I am called upon to help.
"You look at the last Euros and Kalvin was one of the best players for England and we got to the final. If there was someone like that playing at this tournament, you'd be saying the same thing I think.
"It's difficult to say because I've not seen too much of him the last couple of seasons, but there's probably similarities in where we play and certain attributes. There's also going to be things he's better than me at and I'm better than him at obviously."
Eyes on England against Slovenia
As they prepare for their upcoming match against Slovenia next week, all eyes will be on how Southgate addresses this pressing concern about filling Phillips' shoes. The Three Lions aim to secure a win which would put them at the top of Group C - a position they are keenly eyeing.
With young talents like Wharton ready to step up and prove themselves on the international stage, it will be interesting to see how England's midfield shapes up in the coming matches. The Slovenia match could potentially provide a platform for Wharton to showcase his capabilities and cement his place in England's squad.
While Phillips' absence is undoubtedly a setback for the Three Lions, it also presents an opportunity for emerging talents like Wharton to step up and make their mark. As they say in sports - when one player steps off the field, another gets an opportunity to shine.
