Luke Littler opponent makes desperate request ahead of Players Championship Finals clash

Littler's emergence as one of the sport's biggest stars has made him a strong fan favourite at every venue.

And De Decker has pleaded with the Minehead crowd to go easy on him when they step up to compete for a spot in the semi-finals.

"His averages have been 110 for the whole year," he said.

"We will see. If I play him, I just hope the crowd is going to be fair. That's it."

While Littler will be the strong favourite to progress, De Decker will also fancy his chances after what has been a breakthrough year.

He secured his maiden PDC Senior title at the Players Championship 16, but his biggest victory came in a shock win over Luke Humphries to clinch the 2024 World Grand Prix.

And De Decker, who has averaged 96.54 through the opening three rounds of the Players Championship Finals, is feeling confident with his game ahead of facing Littler once again.

"I just feel more comfortable. When I'm feeling comfortable, my A-game is with the best in the world," he said.

"I showed it at the World Grand Prix and I'm showing it again now.

"You could say cloud nine but yeah I'm through to tomorrow and I'm happy."

Littler is the most in-form player in the field this week having won 10 games in a row dating back to October.

He's already faced De Decker once during that run on his way to clinching the Grand Slam of Darts last week in a close match.

Both players averaged over 103 in that match last week as Littler came out on top 10-9 in a narrow win.

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And Littler is looking forward to another match with both players competing at the top of their game.

He said: "Hopefully it's the same outcome for myself and hopefully we can just both turn up. Throw these high averages, I can't wait for it."