Littler's Exit from Premier League Quarter-Finals: A 'Knock-On' Effect from Van Veen Dispute?

Luke Littler's defeat to Stephen Bunting in the Premier League quarter-finals has sparked debate about whether his exit was a direct result of his recent spat with Gian van Veen. The world champion suffered a hostile crowd in Brighton, recording his lowest PDC TV average and failing to hit a single maximum. Former Premier League star Wayne Mardle believes Littler's performance was 'flat' and attributed it to the knock-on effect from the Van Veen incident. Meanwhile, Jonny Clayton produced a stunning comeback to beat Michael Van Gerwen, moving three points ahead of Littler in the table. The Premier League continues, with crucial matches upcoming, including Luke Littler's battle against Gerwyn Price and Stephen Bunting's clash with Josh Rock.