Walton: Let’s not think about the World Cup for now; my idol since I was a kid is Messi, but it’s a pity that I’m not on his level.

Hupu reported on November 8 that TheAthleticUK’s ace reporter David Ornstein had an exclusive interview with Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Walton.

"To be honest, I don't expect to be selected for the squad. I think if I judge by my performance last month, if I can be selected, it should be last month.

He (Tuchel) has a lot of players to choose from, all types of players. I don't expect to be selected, but this is football, football is a controversial sport."

It turns out that the German coach has a different view from DO. Walton was included in the list announced at 10am on Friday, and an hour later Tuchel enthusiastically told reporters that he would finally have the opportunity to use the Lancashire player, provided that Walton's physical condition allowed.

"It's great news to wake up and see this news... It's a bit of a surprise. I felt like I didn't do enough before. I'm very happy and looking forward to it."

Given that Tuchel took the initiative to contact Walton every time he lost the selection, Walton may have been relieved this time because he did not receive any notification. He learned the news through a text message from an FA staff member.

The "joy and congratulations" from family, team-mates and staff were quickly replaced by focus as Palace prepare for Sunday's clash with arch-rivals Brighton.

"I'm not going to think too far ahead - don't be complacent just because things are going well because things can go south very quickly.

We still have about 30 games to go, so there's still a long way to go. I have to work hard to stay healthy. I'm not thinking about the World Cup in the near future."

Wharton admitted on Monday that his skepticism may stem from "I'm very demanding of myself" - more on that later - but it also showed a mature and philosophical side to him that belies his age and helped him better think about whether he should play in the World Cup.

"Of course, everyone wants to go, every footballer wants to go; to represent the country... it feels amazing, but at the same time, if you are too committed to it and don't make it, it can have a big impact on you. For example, if you get injured, you will be very depressed and it will be harder than usual.

It's not that I don't want to go, that would be silly. But I don't think I will struggle with it for a few months, but we will see."

Speaking of role models, Argentina captain Messi's performance in the 2022 World Cup victory is undoubtedly the best example. When asked if he had an idol, the only one Walton mentioned was the legendary star.

"I have liked Messi since I was a child. I have always wanted to be like him, wear his sneakers and so on. Unfortunately, my own career did not work out!"

His last sentence was typical of self-deprecation, but I joked that the distance between Walton and Messi is farther than most people. Walton and the Miami forward did have some similarities early in their careers, though. For example, some media have reported whether Tuchel has concerns about Walton's physical fitness and athletic ability. Walton apparently had no idea about this.

"This is the first time I heard about it, and I don't know if that's the case. If that's the case, then I might not be able to make the national team.

I want to improve in this area, just like I want to improve in everything, but I can't overdo it. I don't think if I don't mention it, I can't become a better player or have an impact on the game by improving that skill. It's definitely not going to change the way I pass the ball.Mini-game recommendations:Avatar Make Up