‘Don’t talk to anyone’: Luke Littler reveals why Phil Taylor told him to keep distance from darts rivals

LUKE LITTLER opened up on an important piece of advice darts legend Phil Taylor has given him.

Littler, 17, has taken the sport by storm since bursting on to the scene last Christmas at the age of 16 and has won a large fanbase as well as recognition from football, wrestling and Formula One stars.

Taylor, 64, decided to share some words of wisdom over a private meal last month.

And the Power advised Littler to keep his distance from his darts rivals as that would make it "harder" for them to face him at the oche.

Littler told : "As soon as he walked in, me and my mum were, ‘What is going on!?'

"Sat down having a meal with Phil Taylor! It was good. He was telling me some of the stories on tour, [about] some of the players.

"He was saying, ‘Just keep yourself to yourself. The least you interact with people, the harder it is for them. Don’t need to talk to anyone’.”

Taylor has sang Littler's praises before as he was impressed by his character and humility.

The Stoke-on-Trent thrower was particularly pleased to see how the youngster didn't prioritise prize money.

Taylor said: "He’s got age on his side, he’s got the ability. He just plays his game.

"He’s quiet as a mouse. Lovely company. Not motivated by prize money.

"He’s more interested in looking after his mother and father.”

Littler is among the favourites to win the Sports Personality of the Year award, which would make him the first ever darts star to earn that honour.

He starts his campaign to win the wolrd championships later this month - and could be set for a dream opening clash.