Ben Foster has hit back at claims that Crystal Palace’s rising star Adam Wharton is “overrated,” insisting the young midfielder could be the answer to Manchester United’s growing midfield problems.
Despite an active summer transfer window, United’s decision not to strengthen their midfield has become a major talking point this season. Manager Ruben Amorim has frequently paired Bruno Fernandes with Casemiro, but that partnership has been met with criticism amid concerns over balance and energy. The absence of Christian Eriksen, who left in the summer, has left the squad short of creative depth, while summer signing Manuel Ugarte is still adapting following his move from Paris Saint-Germain.
United’s failed pursuit of Brighton’s Carlos Baleba highlighted the club’s ongoing need for reinforcements in the middle of the park. It’s widely expected that Amorim will push for a new midfielder in 2024 unless he finds an internal solution before the season ends.
Among the names linked with United is Adam Wharton, the 21-year-old Palace standout who continues to impress in the Premier League. However, his omission from Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad raised eyebrows, especially given his role in Palace’s strong start to the campaign. Despite his fine form, Wharton is still waiting for his first senior England call-up — something that could soon change if he maintains his current level.
Former United goalkeeper Ben Foster believes Wharton would be a perfect fit for Old Trafford. Speaking on The Cycling GK YouTube channel, Foster dismissed the idea that the midfielder is overhyped and praised his composure and athleticism.
“There’s always talk about Adam Wharton being overrated,” Foster said. “But you need to actually watch him play — see how he moves, how calm he is on the ball, and how effortlessly he controls the game. He’s got legs, he’s got vision, and that’s exactly what United are missing right now. They don’t have anyone in midfield with that energy and control combined.”
United scouts have also been monitoring Bayern Munich’s Aleksandar Pavlovic, another young midfielder who has drawn comparisons to Bastian Schweinsteiger. But Wharton remains firmly on their radar, especially as he continues to develop under Oliver Glasner at Selhurst Park.
For his part, Wharton remains grounded despite the recent England snub. The midfielder revealed that Tuchel personally contacted him to explain the decision.
“He sent me a message saying I’m playing well and deserve to be there but he’s sticking with the same squad,” Wharton told BBC Sport. “That’s football — I’m not too fussed. I’ll just keep working hard for Palace and try to improve. If the call-up comes, great. If not, I’ll keep doing my best for my club.”
Wharton added that he’s focused on consistency rather than speculation: “Everyone wants to play for their country, but England have so many top players. I’ll keep knocking on the door, and if I get picked, brilliant. If not, I’ll carry on enjoying my football.”
With his maturity, technical ability, and drive, it’s no surprise that Foster — and many others — see Wharton as a player destined for the top, and perhaps the solution to Manchester United’s midfield puzzle.