TV star predicts disappointment for England and the cheerleaders!

The Chase’s Shaun Wallace has predicted World Cup disappointment for England and has criticised boss Thomas Tuchel’s inclusion of a ‘cheerleader’ in the squad.

The Dark Destroyer, who famously won Mastermind with FA Cup finals as his specialist subject, reckons the Three Lions will fall at the semi-final stage, and is stunned Jordan Henderson – among others - has made the cut for the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

“Tuchel was hired for one purpose and one purpose only - to win the World Cup. Anything less than victory is going to be seen as a failure,” said Wallace in an interview with WhichBingo. “I think England can go very deep. I've tipped them to get to the semi-final, and I'd love them to win it.

“The one thing I love about Thomas Tuchel is that he's a man of his word. He doesn't pick stars; he doesn't pick reputations.”

A criminal barrister by trade, the quizzer is a football fountain of knowledge and is heading across the Atlantic for the entire month-long showpiece. Although a huge Tuchel fan, the Chelsea supporter does not agree with all the squad selections.

“There are three players I definitely would not have taken,” he explained. “Dan Burn is lucky to get in. I know he's a Tuchel favourite, but I don't know what he adds, and he's not quick. He might be an emergency reserve left back, but I wouldn't have taken him.

“I certainly wouldn't have taken Jordan Henderson, who is going to break the record for the most appearances for England at a major tournament with seven [tournament] appearances.

“If you want an experienced cheerleader, fine - but I don't know why he was needed. And John Stones, although he's a quality footballer, at least the advantage is he hasn't played that much, so if he's fit, he's relatively fresh.”

According to the original Chaser, England, who face Croatia in their opener in Texas on Wednesday, 17 June, will ultimately return home without the sport’s biggest prize, sixty years on from their only World Cup victory. But who does he think will be crowned champions in New Jersey next month?

“I can't see past France. It would be wonderful if Mbappé could score, because he'd be the first player in the history of the competition to score in three consecutive World Cup finals. Brazil are my sentimental favourites, but I can't see past France.”