Wilfred Ndidi reveals how Besiktas can stop Adam Wharton ahead of Crystal Palace Europa League clash

Wilfred Ndidi believes Besiktas can limit Adam Wharton’s influence in Thursday’s Europa League encounter with Crystal Palace if they apply the right intensity against the English midfielder.

The Nigeria international offered his assessment of the Palace star ahead of the matchday three fixture, with Besiktas aiming to maintain their perfect start to the competition after victories over Marseille and Hoffenheim.

Ndidi is expected to play a key role in the midfield battle as the Turkish side seek a third consecutive win in the league phase, although his reduced involvement at club level means his place in the starting lineup remains uncertain.

The Besiktas midfielder is familiar with Wharton, having faced him twice in the Premier League during his time at Leicester City.

Ndidi’s Leicester side recorded a 4-1 victory in the 2023-24 campaign before the teams played out a 1-1 draw the following season.

Assessing the challenge posed by the Crystal Palace midfielder, Ndidi acknowledged Wharton’s qualities but believes Besiktas can disrupt his influence with an aggressive approach.

“For tomorrow (today) we don’t know the starting lineup yet. Wharton is a good player, left-footed.

“With the right intensity on him, I think we can get something out of the game.”

Ndidi addresses reduced playing time at Besiktas

While the attention will be on the midfield contest against Palace, Ndidi is also seeking to establish himself more firmly in the Besiktas starting lineup.

The Super Eagles captain has struggled for regular minutes this season, recording just two starts in 16 possible appearances across all competitions.

Despite the limited opportunities, the midfielder has insisted that every player must remain prepared to contribute whenever manager Vincenzo Italiano calls upon them.

Ndidi believes the squad’s collective approach and the demands placed on players in training have ensured that those outside the regular starting eleven remain ready to perform.

“As long as you are in this team, you have to be ready anytime. The coach has made everyone ready because anytime you can play, so it’s up to you to be very ready,” he added.

“We work hard every day, not just me but the guys that have a chance to play more.

“We work very hard because he’s always open to making us know that we are all in this together and the season is long, so we are all ready.”

The midfielder’s comments underline his determination to remain prepared despite his reduced role, with Besiktas facing a demanding schedule across domestic and European competitions.

Besiktas target another European statement

Besiktas head into the Crystal Palace fixture looking to extend their winning run in the Europa League after impressive results against Marseille and Hoffenheim.

A third consecutive victory would strengthen their position in the league phase and provide further momentum as they pursue progress in the competition.

However, Palace are expected to pose a significant test, with Wharton’s ability to dictate play from midfield potentially crucial to the visitors’ chances.

Ndidi’s experience in English football could prove valuable as Besiktas attempt to disrupt Palace’s build-up and prevent Wharton from controlling the tempo.

The Nigerian midfielder was also linked with a move away from Besiktas during the summer transfer window, but no transfer materialised.

He has since remained with the Turkish club and will hope to make the most of any opportunity against Palace as he seeks to increase his involvement under Italiano.

With Besiktas chasing another European victory, Ndidi’s readiness to contribute could be important, whether he starts or features from the bench.