Crystal Palace are 'worried' about Adam Wharton

Wharton's performances have dipped since Sage's arrival, with concerns about his positioning and passing under the new tactical setup.

Crystal Palace are growing concerned about Adam Wharton's recent performances since Pierre Sage took over as manager. The 22-year-old midfielder remains a key part of the starting XI and has captained the side on eight occasions, but his displays have fallen short of the standard he set under Oliver Glasner.

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Wharton's issues have become more apparent under Sage's system, which asks him to operate higher up the pitch. This has left him vulnerable in transitions, and his passing has been inconsistent. Brown noted that Glasner's deeper setup previously masked some of Wharton's limitations, particularly his lack of mobility to cover ground defensively.

Despite the current concerns, there is optimism his form will improve with time. Wharton remains under contract until 2029, and while Crystal Palace rejected enquiries from Manchester City in the summer, they are expected to allow him to leave next year, with Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid among his reported suitors.