Luke Littler has been warned that he must continue to practice darts away from tournaments if he is to remain one of the best in the business. The Brit is ranked No.2 in the world and has won numerous events over the past 18 months.

However, despite Littler’s brilliance at the oche, he has made it no secret that he will steer clear of darts in his own time. Instead, the 18-year-old would rather socialise and play video games than practice – a strategy that certainly hasn't hindered him.

But darts legend Bobby George is wary of the risks Littler is taking and has warned him that he needs to be playing regularly to ensure that he remains at the top of his game all year round.

Speaking to The Sun ahead of World Matchplay, George explained: “Littler could go on and on because he's got youth on his side. But in darts, there's one thing in darts. You can be hero to zero quick.

"You've got to keep on that dartboard. You've got to practice. They say well he doesn't practice. Well he's an idiot if he doesn't. Personally. He's got to keep that muscle memory going. That's all it is. Because when you don't use it you lose it."

Littler is one of the favourites to land the spoils this weekend, and a victory would see him collect his fifth major in just his second year on the Pro Tour, highlighting further his remarkable success during his breakout years.

George went on to reiterate that he believes Littler is capable of remaining a force to be reckoned with for many years to come, saying: “The boy's a fantastic player obviously. His finishing.

"He's unbelievable at double 10. You know he's just missed tops he's playing double 10. He's finishing really good. He can count good as well which is a good thing because a lot of youngsters don't count. He can learn to count."

It is not the first time that an older player has advised Littler to pay more attention to his game away from tournaments to ensure that he keeps his eye in. However, the Nuke would argue that his strategy has served him well already in his career, and there are no signs that he should change a winning formula.