• New champion ‘would need 20 years to surpass 16 titles’
• ‘Everybody raises their game against you’

Phil Taylor has backed Luke Littler to break his record of 16 world titles but says the 17-year-old darts phenomenon will have to overcome “Man Utd syndrome” to do it.

Littler became the youngest player to win the world championship at Alexandra Palace earlier this month to complete a brilliant debut year on tour. After securing his first crown, Littler has said he could attempt to top Taylor’s tally if he has the desire over the next couple of decades.