Adam Wharton has set an impressive record after making his England debut against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
On Monday night, Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions were up against Bosnia in a friendly match ahead of Euro 2024.
England produced a brilliant second-half performance as goals from Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Kane sealed a 3-0 victory.
With 62 minutes on the clock, Southgate decided it was the perfect time to hand a senior England debut to Wharton and Jarrad Branthwaite.
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Wharton moved from Blackburn Rovers to Crystal Palace during the January transfer window and earned his place in Southgate’s squad after a string of impressive performances.
During his cameo against Bosnia, Wharton set a brilliant record.
As per Opta Joe, who wrote on social media: “36 - Since Opta has detailed England passing data (August 2008 onwards), Adam Wharton is the only midfielder to attempt 30+ passes on his England debut and complete every single one (36/36). Unfazed.”
Speaking about Wharton’s debut, England boss Southgate said: “Adam Wharton showed what he has been doing at the end of the season and in training.
“I like what he's done with us in the first few days. He sees pictures early and can play forward. It is very early for him but lovely that he looked as comfortable as he did.”
He added: “It’s a big step up from where he was at the beginning of the season but I like the fact he sees pictures early, he plays forward.
“Obviously he’s got quality on the ball but it’s the ability to receive and play the ball forward that’s really caught our eye.”
On Palmer, Southgate said: “A first goal for Cole Palmer. He showed moments of what he is about. It was his first start for us and there is more to come as he feels more comfortable with the group and we feed him the ball as he needs it.”
England will next face Iceland on Friday before kicking off their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on June 16.
Topics: England, Gareth Southgate, Football
Marcus Chan