WEBSTER “FLABBERGASTED” BY LITTLER AND VAN VEEN ROW
08/04/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
MARK WEBSTER admits he was left “flabbergasted” by Luke Littler’s row with Gian van Veen in the Premier League.
World No.3 Van Veen appeared to take issue with Littler gesturing to the crowd after he missed a match dart last week in Manchester.
The Giant eventually secured a 6-5 victory before the pair exchanged a frosty handshake.
Former BDO World Champ Webster insists there was “no need” for Littler’s reaction when the miss occurred.
He told PaddyPower: “I was a bit flabbergasted by it all really. I don’t see what the problem was for Luke, and I think Gian conducted himself really well.
“Gian naturally turned around in disappointment after missing the match dart and Luke was just geeing up the crowd.
“I think Gian took a bit of reservation to that but I don’t think there was any need for the sort of reaction after [from Littler].
“Gian composed himself well to get it together, and Luke’s just got to refocus this week.”
Littler is known for interacting with fans during matches to psyche himself up on the oche.
Webster believes the teen sensation can expect a hostile reception this Thursday as the weekly roadshow heads to Brighton.
He added: “He’ll get a little bit of a hard time from the crowd because it’s fresh in their memory and he’s playing a fans favourite in Stephen Bunting.
“This could be a tricky assignment for Luke Littler. He’ll want to prove a point. He likes to hit back at the crowd if they’re having a go at him.
“I’m not saying it’s a perfect environment for him, but it’s not something that bothers him. You’re going to get a reaction and he’ll put in a brilliant display.”
Littler currently sits at the top of the table and is two points clear of nearest challenger Gerwyn Price.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
