Luke Littler has admitted he’s concerned the crowd may not be on his side like usual if he faces Fallon Sherrock at the World Darts Championship.
As one of the top 32 seeds, Littler has received a bye in the first round at the Alexandra Palace next month.
He’s been drawn into the top half – the same side of the draw as world No 1 Luke Humphries.
That match-up might come in the semi-final stage, but both Littler and Humphries will have to win four matches to make it happen.
Luke Littler fears he might not have the crowd support at Ally Pally
Sky Sports
Littler’s first match could come against Sherrock, who qualified for the major from the PDC Women’s Series.
Sherrock became a fan-favourite at the Alexandra Palace during her historic run in 2019 and will have a tricky test in her tournament-opener against Ryan Meikle.
Littler is used to having the crowd support on his side in matches after his incredible debut year as a professional.
But the 17-year-old fears that might not be the case if he ends up facing Sherrock on December 21.
“If I do come across her, I don’t know what the crowd would be like,” Littler told Sky Sports.
“Against Fallon, it might be a bit different.”
Littler was also asked about Sherrock’s run to the third round five years ago, which saw her nicknamed the ‘Queen of the Palace’.
He added: “I don’t think anyone really missed it. It was incredible to watch.”
Fallon Sherrock became an overnight sensation in 2019PA
“Good luck to them both.
“It should be a really interesting game, because Ryan’s playing really good, and so is Fallon.”
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Luke Littler came second at the World Darts Championship last year
PA
Littler heads into the World Darts Championship in impressive form after winning the Grand Slam of Darts and finishing runner-up in the Players Championship Final.
But Humphries will be the man to beat as the reigning champion, who defeated Littler in a historic final little over 12 years ago.
Michael van Gerwen will also be hoping the Alexandra Palace can help him rediscover his best form with Michael Smith, Rob Cross and Dave Chisnall also in contention.