Representing your nation in the biggest of the tournaments is the ultimate dream for any footballer. And now, two talented English youngsters are all set to live the dream by donning the English jersey in the upcoming Euro 2024 in Germany.
England manager Gareth Southgate had announced his 26-man squad for the upcoming Euros on June 6. The selection sent shockwaves across the country after Jack Grealish and James Maddison were omitted from the team. The inclusion of Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, on the other hand, was welcomed by fans and pundits alike.
Your #ThreeLions for #EURO2024! 🦁 pic.twitter.com/klzkNNTafI
— England (@England) June 6, 2024
Until recently Mainoo and Wharton were not very popular names in the country. But now they are being celebrated by fans not just from England but from across the world. Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard showered the youngsters with praise while speaking to Talksport.
"I have been hugely impressed but I am not surprised, in terms of their England performances...They are both brilliant players and they are just at the start of their careers."Frank Lampard
Lampard also discussed the pressure that arrives when you play for your country at such a young age. He commended Mainoo and Wharton for being unfazed by such pressure.
"I remember in my early days, the feeling of nerves sometimes, am I meant to be here, settling into a team, going to play at Wembley.Frank Lampard
It is a real step up so to perform as they have done and show that level, it is why Gareth picked them."
Mainoo was instrumental in United's FA Cup win over Manchester City at Wembley. The 19-year-old scored the crucial winning goal from a Bruno Fernandes assist as his club edged out City 2-1. The United academy product was a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing season under Erik ten Hag.
Wharton was instrumental in Crystal Palace's brilliant form under manager Oliver Glasner towards the end of the season. He helped Palace record a stunning win over Liverpool that derailed the Merseyside club's title charge. His performances have seen him getting linked with the German side Bayern Munich. Scouts from numerous other clubs will have their eyes on him during the Euros as he looks to play his part in making sure football comes home.