A celebratory training session for the England football team took a terrifying turn on Monday when darts sensation Luke Littler was reportedly assaulted by a group of thugs outside a sporting complex in Kansas City.
The 19-year-old World Champion, who is currently in the US for a series of exhibition matches, had been invited to watch the Three Lions prepare for their upcoming World Cup warm-up fixtures. Witnesses state that Littler was posing for photos with fans and cheering on the players as they exited the training pitch when a gang of local aggressors confronted the group.
Chaos erupted as the assailants, believed to be local troublemakers, targeted the teenage star. Video footage circulating on social media appears to show Littler being shoved to the ground amid the scuffle, though he was quickly shielded by security personnel and members of the England backroom staff.
“It was a senseless attack,” said an onlooker who wished to remain anonymous. “Luke was just soaking in the atmosphere, chanting with the fans. The thugs came out of nowhere, shouting abuse, and went straight for him.”
Local police arrived on the scene within minutes. The assailants fled the area, and authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway. A spokesperson for the Kansas City Police Department stated that they are reviewing CCTV footage and appealing for witnesses.
Despite the frightening ordeal, Littler is reported to be “shaken but physically okay.” Sources close to the player confirm he sustained minor bruises but refused hospital treatment.
The England squad, who were reportedly stunned by the incident, have released a statement expressing their support for the young star. The FA confirmed that security around the team’s training base will be significantly increased for the remainder of their stay.
This incident casts a shadow over what was meant to be a morale-boosting visit for the Three Lions as they gear up for their tournament campaign on American soil.
