Some darts fans have expressed concern over Luke Littler potentially being burned out following his defeat to Michael van Gerwen on Thursday night.
The 17-year-old set up a blockbuster clash with the Dutchman after overcoming the likes of Rob Cross and Luke Humphries.
Littler was at his best during the match but, ultimately, was unable to reign supreme.
Van Gerwen won 6-5, with Littler missing two match darts to help his experienced opponent on his way to victory.
Luke Littler was disappointed after he fell to defeat against Michael van Gerwen on Thursday evening
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The teenager has taken to Instagram to admit he was 'disappointed' by the defeat.
"Unreal atmosphere last night so thank you everyone for the support," he said on the social media website.
"Disappointed not to get over the line but more points on the board before Glasgow."
Yet some fans have raised fears over Littler potentially being burned out.
The youngster has played in plenty of tournaments over the past six weeks, with the Premier League the latest.
One user said: "You looked a little bit stressed/tired last night. Hope you’re not letting the pressure of the Prem get to you.
"Most important thing is to be relaxed and having fun, it’s why we all love watching you so much."
Their message was liked by 352 people at the time of writing.
And other fans agreed, with one user saying: "Its all experience. I noticed it too but he will improve from these nights."
A second said: "I was thinking the same to be honest. Never normally let's any emotions get past him."
On X, others also raised concerns over Littler being tired.
"He seemed tired during that game to me, the rest wasn’t too big for Littler compared to MVG," said a fan.
And second thought Littler had 'run out of steam', saying: "Littler run out of steam and luck but another superb night for him."
Littler was, however, outstanding on Thursday night.
His victories over Cross and Humphries were proof of his amazing talent and he's well-poised going into next week's round of fixtures in Glasgow.
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Luke Littler performed brilliantly despite his defeat to Michael van Gerwen on Thursday evening
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The teenager has five points to his name, just two less than leader Michael Smith.
Van Gerwen also has five, however, and the Dutchman was delighted at beating Littler and continuing his hunt for Premier League glory.
"Games against Luke Littler are always good," he said.
"If you look at the averages and the way people played, I think it was a fantastic night for darts.
"I was really pleased with my own performance today as I was able to give it that final push. I played really well."
Michael van Gerwen was too hot for Luke Littler to handle during their showdown on Thursday evening
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He continued: "A lot of times I don't miss treble 20s either but it happens in darts.
"I'm playing really well and in the important moments I was able to keep the pressure on my opponents. I feel good but there is more to come.
"Me and Vincent van der Voort have been speaking a lot and sometimes my energy levels in the game hasn't been great.
"You need to find a solution because I know I have the ability. We're working on that but at the moment it's going really well."
