“As a Manchester United fan he’s in enemy territory isn’t he” – Luke Littler can expect another heated night in Liverpool

Luke Littler is gearing up for another charged night in the Premier League Darts 2026. The reigning world champion faces compatriot Luke Humphries on Thursday evening in Liverpool and can likely expect a hostile reception in the English port city.

The 19-year-old Englishman, a passionate Manchester United supporter, has already been booed in recent weeks in Rotterdam and Brighton, among others. After his incident with Gian van Veen, Liverpool also seems set for a rowdy reception for ‘The Nuke’. Former professional Mark Webster, however, believes Littler draws energy from it.

Webster sees a player who lives for these kinds of nights and will not be intimidated by a hostile crowd. “Luke Humphries and Luke Littler bounce off each other and they’re out last on Thursday night,” Webster told Paddy Power.

According to the Welshman, the billing is extra intriguing because of the league table. Humphries is currently fifth and urgently needs points to keep sight of the play-offs. “Humphries is only three points off the playoffs but he needs to get going as soon as possible. He can’t keep going further adrift.” Webster, however, sees a major obstacle in Littler. “I can’t keep banging Humphries’ drum as I’ve been saying he’ll win a night for weeks now."

The fact the match is being played in Liverpool makes the clash even more charged. Littler is known as a Manchester United fan and therefore should expect little support. “Littler’s going to be fired up. As a Manchester United fan he’s in enemy territory isn’t he.”

According to Webster, Littler actually relishes those situations. “He likes to wind up the crowd in Liverpool and he enjoys the occasion.”

The former Lakeside champion therefore expects a top-level contest. ““Hopefully it’ll be a thriller and I can see both players averaging around a ton. Ultimately, I can see Littler winning and getting past his fellow Luke.”

Littler already proved last week in Rotterdam that he can handle hostile conditions. He faced heavy booing and whistling there, yet still beat Gerwyn Price and Humphries.

Afterwards, Littler stayed unfazed by the atmosphere at Ahoy. “It was exactly what I expected, the boos and whistles.” But once on the stage, he felt in control right away. “But I knew as soon as I got on stage I could do my job.”

Littler is currently second in the Premier League table, five points behind leader Jonny Clayton. Clayton won his fourth night title of the season in Rotterdam last week, landing a significant blow. For Littler, Liverpool offers the chance to hit back immediately and crank up the pressure on top spot. At the same time, Humphries cannot afford another misstep in the battle for a place in the top four.