Gareth Southgate believes Adam Wharton is the type of midfielder England have missed for almost a decade.

The Blackburn Rovers Academy graduate was named in the senior squad for the first time ahead of the European Championships. After a remarkable rise, Wharton is pushing to be included in the 26-man squad for Germany.

Wharton could make his debut against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday night at St James' Park. He is not expected to start the game but could make an impact from the substitutes bench.

Southgate will want to take a look at the 20-year-old outside of training in these two friendlies. The Three Lions host Iceland on Friday night before naming his Euros squad on Saturday, in what will be a decisive week.

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The England boss talked up Wharton's qualities ahead of facing Bosnia, suggesting he has a unique skill set which could be of use.


“He has settled in really confidently with the ball,” Southgate said. 

“I like the fact he likes to play forward as quickly as he can.

“He sees pictures when he receives [the ball], and we have been short of these types of players for seven or eight years, if I am honest. 

"At times, that has had an effect on the way we have been able to play.”

Despite the glowing review, Southgate also stressed that too much shouldn't be expected of Wharton or Manchester United breakthrough talent Kobbie Mainoo.

Both are enjoying their first season at Premier League level and whilst their quality has shined through, Southgate is aware they lack experience at senior level.

“There are obviously a couple of good technical players who have come through,” Southgate explained. 

“Kobbie is one. Adam Wharton is one. So, there is a bigger pool, but one of those boys was playing in the Championship earlier this year and the other was finding his feet for Manchester United. 

"So, they are not Kroos and Modric in terms of experience, but the team will have a different feel and we think that’s the best route to go.”