England squad surprised by Luke Littler visit

As England continue their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this year, the Three Lions squad had a special visitor from an English world champion in another sport – darts superstar Luke Littler.

The current world number one and two-time PDC world champion came to St. George’s Park on Wednesday to meet the England squad as well as throw a few arrows from the camp’s own oche at the national football centre in Burton-on-Trent.

Darts has become a popular pastime for the players during their down time on camp over the years, with inter-squad competitions often taking place.

And with Three Lions ace Phil Foden having already thrown the holy grail of dart scores of 180 earlier in the day, the 19 year old from Warrington joined the team for dinner before hosting a darts tournament, with players going head-to-head to find a camp champion.

After bringing the atmosphere of Ally Pally to St George's Park, the full squad watched on as Foden faced Aaron Ramsdale for final bragging rights with Ramsdale ultimately taking the crown.

“It was a dream as a football fan to come here to see the facilities, meet all the players, sit down and have dinner and a laugh with them,” said Littler.

“We played a bit of darts - as they were warming up, Thomas Tuchel told me to teach these boys a lesson! There’s some good potential there in Phil Foden and Aaron Ramsdale. James Trafford had a little bit as well. The others, not so much!

“I wished the boys luck this summer – let’s hope they can bring it home!”

Camp champion Ramsdale added: “It was great to have Luke visit St. George's Park to meet the squad and wish us well.

“Personally, it was an honour for me to have the chance to step up to the oche and take on the world champion.”

The squad will face Uruguay at Wembley on Friday 27 March (7.45pm GMT) and then Japan on Tuesday 31 March (7.45pm BST), with tickets for both games still available.