'I don't think it's fair' - Michael van Gerwen expresses 'insane' Luke Littler concern

Michael van Gerwen has offered a word of caution to young talent Luke Littler about the potential risks of falling under too much scrutiny.

Amid talk from the 17-year-old rising star of possibly retiring before he hits 30, Van Gerwen flagged up the "insane" pressure on young players and how it could push them away from the sport.

During Thursday's Premier League Darts contest between the pair in Newcastle, Van Gerwen came out victorious against Littler for the third time in a row. Despite another thrilling duel between the two hotshots of the circuit, it was an opportunity for Van Gerwen to voice his concerns over the burden of fame tied to the young player's every action.

Littler, who hails from Warrington, openly admitted that he might be finished with the game before reaching his thirties, saying: "I've been playing a long time in the juniors, in the old British Darts Federation. I might just do 10 or 15 years and retire if I've had enough."

Luke Littler given darts domination reality check by world champion Luke Humphries

Luke Littler drops unexpected retirement hint despite eyeing up Phil Taylor's incredible record

Van Gerwen, having spent 15 years himself at the top and claimed three world champion titles, warned about the immense pressure placed onto youngsters' shoulders: "He's a young kid. How much pressure everyone puts on his shoulders is insane. I know, as a player, how it is. I don't think it's fair on him. But that's my opinion.

"Let him enjoy his life. Let him do his own thing. If he puts his shoe on, puts his darts in the sand, put his finger in his nose, whatever he does, people speak about it. Of course that happens with famous people, but let him live his life.

"I just like darts and I want to