5 things noticed in Luke Littler's Man Utd visit including Alex Ferguson chat

26 January 2024 , 15:57

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Luke Littler took on Harry Maguire in a darts match as he visited Manchester United

Luke Littler has paid a visit to Manchester United's training ground, weeks after his stunning run at the PDC World Championship.

Entering the tournament on debut, the 17-year-old beat former world champions Raymond van Barneveld and Rob Cross to reach the final. Though he was beaten by Luke Humphries in the showpiece event, Littler claimed a place as darts' next superstar.

The teenager bounced back from his disappointment at Ally Pally by winning the Bahrain Masters last week. He was rewarded for that landmark trophy win with a visit to United's Carrington training ground.

Littler watched a training session out and was given a signed shirt by his favourite player Alejandro Garnacho. Here, Mirror Football rounds up the five things we noticed from Littler's trip.

Maguire clash

Having watched training, Littler challenge United stars Harry Maguire and Christian Eriksen to a darts match. Unsurprisingly, the Red Devils stars were no match for the PDC World Championship runner-up.

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Littler hit a 180 during his turn at the oche, with Maguire in good spirits despite his defeat. The duo drew a large crowd, with Mason Mount, Rasmus Hojlund and Victor Lindelof all watching on.

Garnacho confusion

Alejandro Garnacho appeared to be confused as Luke Little shook hands with Marcus Rashford

Littler named Alejandro Garnacho as his favourite player, with the winger even handing the darts star a signed shirt. But the Argentine international appeared to be confused at exactly who Littler was.

'The Nuke' met some of the first-team squad as they made their way out for training. And as Littler shook hands with United attacker Marcus Rashford, Garnacho could be seen in the background with a confused look on his face.

Ten Hag tip

Erik ten Hag tipped Littler to win next year's PDC World Championship

United boss Erik ten Hag has urged Littler to 'keep going' as the Dutchman tipped him to win next year's PDC World Championship. Ten Hag met with Littler along with the rest of his squad and congratulated the 17-year-old on his stunning debut at Ally Pally.

The United boss told Littler: “Congrats with your performance, it was great. Keep going and I’m sure, next time, you will win. It’s about character always, so keep going!”

Ferguson chat

Littler also opened up on his recent chat with Sir Alex Ferguson

Littler had previously been invited to attend United's draw with Tottenham earlier this month. And the darts star revealed that he had a conversation with Sir Alex Ferguson at the match as he revealed his hope that he can one day show off the World Championship trophy at old Trafford.

“Unbelievable, I met Sir Alex Ferguson and got him to sign my top for me. It was good to get me in a quite good seat and I actually wore some decent clothes for once, instead of just trackies!" Littler told MUTV.

“Hopefully, I can win the world championship or even a major trophy this year – one of the five or six majors that are on offer – and take it to Old Trafford.”

Eriksen delight

While Garnacho appeared to be confused at the identity of United's visitor, Christian Eriksen was delighted to welcome him to Carrington. The Dane was seen laughing with and congratulating the 17-year-old during their impromptu match.

Jacob Leeks