Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton missed Saturday’s pre-season friendly against Swindon Town because of an ankle knock.
The 22-year-old was not involved as Pierre Sage began his reign with a 5-1 victory at the club’s training ground.
According to reporter Bobby Manzi, an ankle problem prevented Wharton from featuring. Palace have not yet confirmed the severity of the issue or provided a possible return date.
His absence appears precautionary at this stage, but Sage will want the midfielder available as quickly as possible during his first pre-season in charge.
Palace must manage Wharton carefully
Wharton had been involved in first-team training during the week and appeared likely to receive minutes against Swindon.
The midfielder also carried an ankle injury towards the end of last season. He suffered the problem against Arsenal before recovering to produce a man-of-the-match performance in Palace’s Conference League final victory over Rayo Vallecano.
We Are Palace reports that his latest absence was connected to an ankle knock, although further clarification will be needed to establish whether it concerns the same area.
Palace have little reason to take risks during the opening weeks of pre-season.
Wharton remains central to how Sage may build his midfield. His passing range and ability to receive possession under pressure provide qualities that are difficult to replace within the current squad.
Read Crystal Palace previously examined how Palace could cope without Wharton when his availability was uncertain before the European final.
Sage’s side next face Bromley on 25 July. Palace will hope Wharton’s omission proves to be a short-term precaution rather than an interruption to his preparations.
