Raymond van Barneveld is into the last 16 at Alexandra Palace (Picture: Getty Images)
Raymond van Barneveld can’t wait to take on Luke Littler in the last 16 of the World Darts Championship, with the legendary Dutchman a big fan of the teenage sensation who is 40 years his junior.
The five-time world champion beat Jim Williams 4-1 on Friday afternoon to set up a meeting with Littler on Saturday evening, which will attract a lot of attention.
The 16-year-old has been brilliant on his World Darts Championship debut, averaging over 106 in his opening 3-0 win over Christian Kist, before downing UK Open champion Andrew Gilding 3-1 and Matt Campbell 4-1 to make the last 16.
The vastly experienced 56-year-old will be a huge test for the debutant and Barney is excited about taking on the new superstar on the oche.
‘I love to play Luke Littler, guys!’ Van Barneveld said on Sky Sports after beating Williams. ‘When I was 16 I was playing with Lego and Playmobil! We didn’t have internet and whatever.
‘This guy is amazing and how it will be tomorrow to play this guy…I’m looking forward to that game so much. He’s a quality player, I can’t wait to meet him tomorrow.’
He added: ‘If I look at this guy, I’m thinking, “wow what a player, what a quality player.” I know he’s won some things, but to do this on this high level, that’s quality!’
Luke Littler has cruised through his first three matches at the World Darts Championship (Picture: Getty Images)
Van Barneveld did have a warning for Littler, though, saying that he will bring a quality performance with him on Saturday, something he didn’t really do in his 89 average against Williams.
‘He’s an amazing player, but I don’t play players, I play the board,’ he said. ‘I’m not afraid of Michael van Gerwen, [Luke] Humphries, Phil Taylor, so I’m not afraid of Luke Littler.
‘But to beat these guys you have to produce quality and that’s what I’m going to do. I can’t wait to play Luke.’
When Littler beat Campbell he was already eyeing up the chance to take down a legend in the biggest event in the sport.
‘Overall, it was a good performance. It wasn’t quite as good as the first round, but I don’t care if I win with the lowest average of the tournament, as long as I get the result,’ he said.
‘I’ve got nothing to lose now, because I’ve already overachieved. Jim is playing well, but it would be unbelievable to play against Raymond on that stage.’
MORE : Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler reveals how he will spend World Darts Championship prize money
MORE : Luke Littler wins again as 16-year-old continues dream debut at World Darts Championship
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‘He’s an amazing player, but I don’t play players, I play the board.’