Glenn Hoddle has questioned Thomas Tuchel’s decision to leave Adam Wharton out of England’s World Cup squad after the Crystal Palace midfielder played a starring role in the club’s historic Conference League triumph.
Wharton helped Palace secure their first-ever European trophy with a composed display in the 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig, only days after learning he would not be travelling to the World Cup with England.
The 22-year-old midfielder was one of Palace’s standout performers during the final and played a key role in the move that led to Jean-Philippe Mateta’s decisive second-half goal.
His performance quickly reignited debate surrounding Tuchel’s squad selection.
Glenn Hoddle questions Tuchel’s midfield choices
Speaking after the final, former England manager Hoddle admitted he was surprised by Wharton’s omission, particularly given the midfielder’s ability to dictate play from deeper areas.
“I raised an eyebrow when I saw he wasn’t in the squad.
He can hit the killer balls, those balls that take the whole defence out with one pass. I’m not sure England have got many in the deep-lying positions who can do that on a consistent level.”
— Glenn Hoddle
Hoddle also questioned the inclusion of 35-year-old Jordan Henderson, suggesting England could have benefited more from Wharton’s creativity and composure in midfield.
The former Tottenham midfielder went even further by suggesting Henderson’s leadership qualities could have been utilised without occupying a squad place.
Adam Wharton shines in Crystal Palace’s historic win
Wharton’s display in Leipzig added another major moment to an already impressive season.
After helping Palace win the FA Cup last season and qualify for Europe, the midfielder has continued developing into one of the Premier League’s most highly regarded young central players.
| Adam Wharton achievements | 2025/26 |
|---|---|
| Conference League titles | 1 |
| England caps | 4 |
| Major finals won with Palace | 2 |
| World Cup selection | Not selected |
source: player and competition records – 27 May 2026
Having followed Crystal Palace throughout the campaign, Wharton increasingly looked like the player capable of controlling the rhythm of matches during high-pressure moments. His passing range and calmness in possession repeatedly stood out, particularly in bigger fixtures.
That helps explain why his omission created strong reactions.
However, it remains too early to know how Tuchel’s final midfield balance will perform during the World Cup itself.
Palace continue rise despite major departures
Crystal Palace’s latest success also arrived during a period of transition.
The club lost Eberechi Eze last summer and saw captain Marc Guehi depart in January, but Oliver Glasner still guided the side towards another major achievement before his impending departure.
Goalscorer Jean-Philippe Mateta reflected the mood after the final.
“We did it! First time in Europe and we did it.” — Jean-Philippe Mateta
Key Points
- Glenn Hoddle criticised Thomas Tuchel over Adam Wharton’s omission
- Wharton starred as Crystal Palace won the Conference League
- Hoddle praised the midfielder’s passing ability and composure
- Jordan Henderson’s inclusion was questioned
- Palace secured their first European trophy
What's next
Wharton now enters the summer with his reputation further enhanced despite missing out on the World Cup squad.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, prepare for another new era following Oliver Glasner’s departure after overseeing the most successful spell in the club’s history.
Should Adam Wharton have been included in England’s World Cup squad?
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