Luke Littler questions Tuchel’s decision on Mainoo ahead of World Cup clash
Luke Littler has admitted he cannot understand why Thomas Tuchel has yet to hand Kobbie Mainoo a single minute at the World Cup, with England preparing for Wednesday’s last-32 showdown against DR Congo, reports BritPanorama.
The teenage darts sensation believes the Manchester United midfielder proved his quality during Euro 2024 and has earned the right to feature as England bid to keep their World Cup dream alive. Despite the Three Lions topping Group L after victories over Croatia and Panama, either side of a goalless draw with Ghana, Mainoo has remained an unused substitute throughout the tournament.
This decision has left Littler baffled. The reigning world darts champion stated that Mainoo deserves the chance to show what he can do on football’s biggest stage. “I think even in the Euros a few months ago he proved himself there,” Littler told The Rest Is Football podcast. “I don’t get why he is not allowed to prove himself in the World Cup so far but hopefully he does get a chance,” he added.
Littler, a lifelong Manchester United supporter, also expressed his thoughts on Tuchel’s selection decisions, mentioning the inclusion of Harry Maguire as a potential oversight. The 19-year-old made these comments after travelling to the United States to watch England secure their place in the knockout rounds, just a day after suffering heartbreak in the final of the US Darts Masters.
In a nail-biting title decider at Madison Square Garden, Littler was edged out 8-7 by Luke Humphries but still chose to cheer on the England squad, demonstrating his commitment despite adverse weather conditions during the match. “It was unbelievable,” Littler said.
As he reflects on England’s performance, the young star highlights his recent triumph at the World Cup of Darts alongside Humphries earlier this month, where they overcame last year’s disappointment to claim the title. His journey underscores the challenges of sport, where the thrill of victory often contrasts sharply with the agony of defeat.
Ultimately, as England looks to progress further in the tournament, the spotlight is on Tuchel’s selections and how they might impact the team’s approach to their next challenge.
