Adam Wharton: Profile, playing style, scouting report

Blackburn Rovers' rising star tipped for big future

Adam Wharton is a young England international who was born on 6 February 2004 in Blackburn, England. He joined the Blackburn Rovers academy at the age of 7 and progressed through the ranks, signing his first professional contract in May 2022.

Wharton was a regular in the Blackburn Rovers youth teams, playing above his age group for much of his time in the academy. He was also called up to England youth teams at an early age, representing his country at the early stages of his career. His performances in the youth academy attracted the attention of a number of top clubs, but he chose to stay at Blackburn Rovers, signing his first professional contract in May 2022.

Player history

He made his professional debut on 10 August 2022 in a 4-0 EFL Cup victory over Hartlepool United, he made his Championship debut on 27 August 2022 against Stoke City, coming off the bench at half time.

He quickly established himself as a regular in the Blackburn Rovers first team, making 38 appearances in all competitions during the 2022-23 season and was named the club's Young Player of the Year for his performances.

He plays for his hometown club under a great manager in John Dahl Tomasson, who believes in playing the young talent in the team, and he also plays alongside his older brother Scott, this all is providing Wharton with the best platform to learn, grow and become the best player he can be. 

This season he has cemented himself as a starter playing in all 8 Championship games so far, he has also played 6 games for the England Under 19’s and he has the ability to play above his age group.

Adam Wharton's Playing style

Wharton's early age success as a footballer is a testament to his talent, hard work and dedication. He is a highly promising young player with the potential to develop into a top defensive midfielder, he is a versatile left-footed midfielder with a high work ethic and excellent technical skills. His playing style is similar to that of a young Jack Wilshere, with a focus on controlling the game from central midfield.

Like Wilshere, he is a natural leader and likes to be the orchestrator of attacks. However, he is also happy to defend when needed. He tends to stay central in the pitch and defend the middle and half-spaces. A modern day box-to-box player is comfortable in both attacking and defending, always possesses a strong desire to win the ball and is good at breaking the lines with his passing or dribbling. He is also confident on the ball and can use both feet equally well.

Wharton's defensive aggression and high football IQ make him a standout among young players. He's always eager to win the ball back and knows where to be and who to pass to, he is a tenacious defender who always gives his all. He's also very intelligent, with a deep understanding of the game. He's always in the right position to make a tackle or interception, and he's also a great passer of the ball.

Wharton's combination of defensive aggression and football IQ makes him a valuable asset to Blackburn Rovers. He's also a role model for other young players, showing them what it takes to be successful at the highest level.

Due to his performances, he is being targeted by Premier League clubs. Latest one being Manchester United, they have struggled this season especially due to injuries in midfield position and defense. The Red Devils are keeping a close check on the youngster to potentially recruit him and solve the defensive midfield problems and lack of options in that particular position.