April 1, 2023, London, London, England: 1st April 2023; Selhurst Park, Selhurst, London, England; Premier League Football, Crystal Palace versus Leicester City; Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson appearing at the start of the match. (Credit Image: © Katie Chan/Action Plus Sports via ZUMA Wire)
After a dismal day at the Amex Stadium, Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has evaluated teenage debutant Adam Wharton.
Away from the field, Crystal Palace had a fruitful week as they welcomed teenager Adam Wharton from Blackburn Rovers and defender Daniel Munoz from Genk.
Two days after scoring his first Premier League goal, the Englishman had to prove his worth at the highest level when he landed in south London, carrying a £18.5 million price tag.
Roy Hodgson decided to give the 19-year-old his big break against Brighton on Saturday. The young player replaced Marc Guehi after just 28 minutes. The 19-year-old is typically used as a central midfielder but has the versatility to play in the heart of defense.
The teenager didn’t have to wait long to experience the wrath of the Premier League and the match when he was taken out of the game during a brilliant move by the home team that set up the Seagulls’ third goal.
Regarding Adam Wharton’s debut, what was Roy Hodgson’s opinion?
After Wharton made his debut, Hodgson called the situation a “baptism of fire” since the versatile player had to adjust fast to not only his first appearance but also a hotly contested match between two rivals, away from home.
The manager acknowledged that Facundo Buonanotte’s goal was off, but the young player’s play made the Eagles go for him.
“He proved why we purchased him. It was a baptism of fire, and he will only get better. His performance was good, in my opinion.
Wharton proved his mettle on a depressing day for Palace by winning five of his nine attempted duels in addition to adjusting to playing in the Premier League and outside of his preferred position.
Palace’s youngsters must be trusted by Roy Hodgson.
The Eagles have had a difficult season at times, especially with regard to Hodgson, who has drawn criticism for his remarks and handling of Selhurst Park’s young prospects.
The 76-year-old acknowledged in November 2023 that he was “wrong” to criticize Palace’s younger players, whom he said rendered the team “weaker” in a loss to Tottenham Hotspur.
The manager’s positive evaluation of Wharton may indicate that he is changing his mind about believing in young players. Selhurst is home to a wealth of developing talent that, at this point, could definitely add depth to the team.
Wharton’s early Premier League experience will surely present another opportunity for him to flourish, since his initial months at Palace were harsh.
