Luke Littler could not hide his confusion upon hearing comments from his upcoming World Darts Championship opponent, Ryan Joyce.

Littler will go into their last-16 tie as the favourite but Joyce is a reliable double-hitter who has already taken big scalps at this year’s tournament.

After beating Ryan Searle on Saturday, Joyce said: “If Luke Littler plays at his top level, he can beat anybody can’t he? He’ll brush me aside comfortably.”

When those remarks were put to Littler, his face bore a confused expression.

The youngster then said: “I didn’t know he said that. If that’s what he’s thinking, it’s probably not good for his game. I’ve just got to focus on my game.”