Sam Szmodics believes Adam Wharton will be the best player he's played alongside when he retires and backed the youngster for England.

The Blackburn Rovers academy graduate was sold to Crystal Palace in the January transfer window for a 'club record' sale. That is believed to be worth around £22million, including add-ons.

Whilst some players might take time to adapt in the Premier League, Wharton has taken to the step up like a duck to water. It's little surprise to those who have watched him regularly and played alongside him.

The 20-year-old's displays have caught the eye to the extent that he is already being discussed as a potential gate crasher for Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad. He's started every match for Crystal Palace since his debut.

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Whilst an England call-up might be premature, it's clear that his future is destined for the top level. Szmodics believe that his former team-mate will play for his country and play at the very highest echelons of football.

"I think he'll end up being the best player I have played with," Szmodics told the No Tippy Tappy Podcast.

"There are even questions about him being on the plane for England and it wouldn't surprise me if he was.

"He's a lovely lad, when I joined he looked like a sulky teenager, that's how he looks, he plays at his own pace. 

"His left foot, vis vision on the turn when he gets the ball, he will play for England. If you watch him, to be bought for £20m at 19, he is phenomenal.

"He is playing every minute of every game/. You might get bought and get dripped in slowly but he's played every match and been their best player, apart from Eze and Olise.

"He has gone on to do really well and he will have a great career in the Premier League and for England."