"If I get past Michael I will fancy my chances": Luke Littler sets his sights on World Matchplay if Van Gerwen win achieved

Luke Littler will face off against Michael van Gerwen in a blockbuster first round tie albeit one we've grown fairly accustomed to at the 2024 World Matchplay as 'The Nuke' makes his debut in Blackpool.

Playing on Monday, he joked that he is putting the work in while Van Gerwen is on holiday. 'The Green Machine' is currently in Ibiza as he aims to recharge his batteries as he looks to regain his form of old which has deserted him this year with only a World Series to his name.

"It's always going to be interesting whoever I face. No matter who it is especially playing Michael (van Gerwen). Especially for myself watching him for years and years. We've played nine times now but it should be good," said Littler.

"I think he's still on holiday at the minute, I don't know if he's back yet. But I know I'm putting the work in."

While he isn't looking too far ahead, Littler knows who he would face if he gets through and admits he is looking to win if he manages to get past MVG.

"I've seen the names obviously in my side of the draw that me and Michael are in. I know if I get past Michael I will fancy my chances for whoever wins their games. If I get past Michael, I can go on another good run."

But just getting there in the first place is interesting given that he wasn't qualified at the turn of the year despite reaching the World final. So he has had to toil for it.

"It's been good, I know myself what I had to put in. Winning money on the ProTours and winning a couple of European Tours and it's put me in the position to qualify for all the majors."