Hoddle Criticizes Tuchel for Choosing Henderson Over Wharton in World Cup Squad

Glenn Hoddle has expressed strong disapproval of Thomas Tuchel's choice to leave Adam Wharton out of England's World Cup squad, opting instead for veteran Jordan Henderson. Wharton, a young midfielder, recently played a key role in Crystal Palace's historic European triumph shortly after being omitted from the tournament roster.

Hoddle condemned the decision on TNT Sports, highlighting Wharton's impressive contributions during the season at Selhurst Park and his standout performance in the Conference League final. The 22-year-old midfielder helped Crystal Palace secure their first continental trophy by defeating Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in Leipzig, which also earned the club a place in next season's Europa League.

Questioning the rationale behind selecting the 35-year-old Henderson over Wharton, Hoddle stated, "I was a little bit surprised, yeah. I think he suits three in midfield because he doesn’t get around the pitch that quickly so that might be a burden against him but certainly for me I love the way he looks forward and passes. He can hit the killer balls, those balls that takes 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. So I raised an eyebrow when I saw he wasn’t in the squad."

He added, "I understand why the manager has taken Jordan Henderson but if you want him to do that type of job just take him as a coach. There was a spot there for Adam Wharton. He was different class tonight, he was one of the players who played his normal game from the first minute to the last. He settled into the game and just showed everyone what he does, he got on the ball and passed and created. Palace weren’t at their best but he was doing all the right things and exactly what he does week in, week out. Fair play to him, it’s a big blow not to be on the plane to the World Cup but he’s finished the season on a real high."

Supporting Hoddle's view, former Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward emphasized Wharton's technical skills and potential for international success. Ward, who has four caps for England, told The Sun, "Adam certainly possesses enough quality and ability to be in the team. What he brings to the team, how he plays and his intelligence, I think he’d certainly slot in there and be absolutely fine."

Ward continued, "Obviously, it’s a very tough and competitive pool. I’m sure there’ll be disappointment but also the recognition of being so close will only bear him on to go and kick on to achieve more. I have no doubt that he will have a very fruitful career in an England shirt as well. When he’s on the pitch, he sees things in a different way. His ability to break the lines, his ability to beat people and find those killer passes and not turn away from making those passes is what sets him apart."

Tuchel's final midfield selection for the World Cup included Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Kobbie Mainoo, and Jordan Henderson.

Following the World Cup squad omission, Wharton faces a critical summer as Crystal Palace prepare for the upcoming Europa League campaign. The club must appoint a new manager after Oliver Glasner's departure and work to retain key players. Wharton, a former Blackburn academy graduate, will take an extended break before returning to lead Palace's continental ambitions next season.