Liverpool Warned Not to Sign ‘Concerning’ Premier League Midfielder | OneFootball

Adam Wharton: Is He Worth the Risk for Liverpool?

Liverpool’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements has taken an intriguing turn, with Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace emerging as a potential target. However, as discussed on the Anfield Index podcast by Dave Davis and Dr Phil Barter, doubts remain over Wharton’s injury record and his ability to adapt to Liverpool’s high-tempo style. In fact, Dr Phil Barter made it clear that he would prefer Carlos Baleba from Brighton over the Palace man.

Wharton’s Injury Woes and Liverpool’s Concerns

One of the major sticking points surrounding Adam Wharton’s potential move to Liverpool is his worrying injury record. As Dr Phil Barter bluntly pointed out, “He’s only got 800 minutes this season… he’s going to be lucky to clock in anywhere near 1,500.” For a club like Liverpool, where durability and availability are essential traits, his playing load could be a potential concern.

Barter emphasised that Wharton, has yet to consistently match the playing loads expected of LFC CM’s, partly due to his age and injuries, which poses a significant risk.

Photo: IMAGO

Lack of Attacking Output and the Palace Factor

Another point of contention is Wharton’s limited attacking contribution from midfield. While he did show some attacking promise during his time at Blackburn, registering a goals and assists rate of 0.7 per 90 minutes, his numbers at Palace have been far less impressive. As Barter observed, “He’s playing at the base of midfield… Palace don’t have a lot of the ball or opportunity to do really fancy attacking stuff.”

Liverpool’s current system under Arne Slot demands midfielders who can break lines, progress the ball, and maintain high passing accuracy. Yet Wharton’s passing completion rate of just 77% is below the required standard. As Barter noted, “We only ask for mid-80s as our box standard… 77% is fairly low from midfield.”

Given Liverpool’s need for a dynamic and reliable presence in the centre of the park, Wharton’s profile does not immediately fit the bill. While his defensive metrics, like clearances and interceptions, are decent, his lack of consistency and injury issues make him a risky signing.

Why Carlos Baleba Could Be the Better Option

While Wharton’s name continues to be linked with Liverpool, Dr Phil Barter was clear about his preference for Carlos Baleba from Brighton. The Cameroonian midfielder has impressed since arriving in the Premier League and offers the kind of physicality and durability Liverpool’s midfield currently lacks. Barter explained, “Baleba has proven his fitness and is more suited to the intensity of Premier League football compared to Wharton.”

Photo: IMAGO

Baleba’s ability to progress the ball and break up play has also caught the eye, with Barter remarking that he would “prefer Baleba” given the choice. It’s a pragmatic stance, considering Baleba’s relatively injury-free record and his ability to influence games both defensively and offensively.

What Next for Liverpool’s Midfield?

As Liverpool weigh up their options, it remains to be seen whether Wharton’s potential outweighs his injury concerns. The appeal of a young, technically gifted English midfielder is clear, but the risks involved mean that Liverpool’s recruitment team must tread carefully. With Arne Slot looking to stamp his authority on the squad, he will want a midfielder who can be relied upon week in and week out.

Ultimately, if Liverpool are serious about challenging on all fronts next season, they may be better off focusing their efforts on players like Carlos Baleba, who offer a safer and more robust solution. As Barter succinctly put it, “Wharton’s injury record means you’re carrying a risk, and Liverpool don’t need that in midfield.”