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.
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.
That decision has left Littler scratching his head.
The reigning world darts champion says 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."
Littler, a lifelong Manchester United supporter, also questioned another of Tuchel's selection decisions after being asked which player should have been included in England's squad.
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
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Kobbie Mainoo has been an unused substitute for England in all three of their World Cup matches so far
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"I think Harry Maguire had to be in there," he said.
The 19-year-old made the comments after flying 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.
Littler was edged out 8-7 by Luke Humphries in a dramatic title decider at Madison Square Garden but still travelled to cheer on Tuchel's side, even refusing to wear a poncho during a rain-soaked encounter.
"It was unbelievable," Littler said.
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England's record at the World Cup | GETTY/ GB NEWS"It was my third time in Madison Square Garden. I have not won here yet but great final with Luke again.
"Both days were sold out but I think it was 90 per cent English fans so I can't complain."
The Warrington star knows all about representing England after lifting the World Cup of Darts alongside Humphries earlier this month.
The pair made amends for last year's disappointment, when they were beaten by hosts Germany, by going all the way to claim the title.
Reflecting on the triumph, Littler explained why the doubles format presents such a different challenge from the individual game.
"I think last year was difficult," he said.
"Obviously, me and Luke planned to win it. But obviously we went to Germany and lost to the Germans which wasn't the best.
"This year we turned it around and picked up the trophy.
Luke Littler and Luke Humphries won the World Cup of Darts earlier this month
| GETTY"It is hard to get into a rhythm because you have to wait three throws before you throw again."
Littler also revealed he and Humphries regularly discuss which doubles they prefer before taking to the stage.
"But me and Luke got the job done," he added.
"In the backroom we talk about favourite doubles.
"Once we get down to a finish what double should we set each other up on. That's how easy it is.
"Obviously, on stage it is difficult. But we finally got the win."