Littler Faces Backlash in Brighton, Loses to Bunting Amidst Van Veen Feud

World champion Luke Littler suffered a setback in Brighton, recording his lowest PDC TV average in a defeat to Stephen Bunting, and analyst Wayne Mardle believes this loss was a direct result of Littler's feud with Gian van Veen the previous week. Littler, who was booed by the crowd, averaged just 83.94 and failed to hit a single maximum, marking his lowest televised average. Former Premier League star Mardle felt Littler was not at his usual standard, looking 'flat' and lacking his usual directness. Bunting, who turned 41, capitalized on Littler's poor performance, despite struggling with doubles himself, hitting just six of 21 attempts. Littler's subdued display sparked comments from three-time world champion John Part, who noted Littler 'didn't look interested' and that Bunting 'made harder work of it than he should have.' Meanwhile, Jonny Clayton staged a stunning comeback to beat Michael Van Gerwen, moving three points ahead of Littler in the table. Clayton confirmed that Littler and Van Veen practiced in separate rooms, downplaying any significance to this. The Premier League action continues, with crucial matches upcoming, including Littler facing Gerwyn Price and Bunting taking on Josh Rock.