Van Gerwen said ‘this isn’t where I want to be’ after World Darts Championship but things have gone from bad to worse

THIS is the year the Oche Old Guard have looked old, pale and stale.

The emergence of teenager Luke Littler and the consistency of Luke Humphries — who is still under 30 — have ushered in a new era.

GettyMichael van Gerwen has struggled for form this year[/caption] PALuke Littler is one of the favourites to win the World Championship[/caption] GettyLuke Humphries is the current holder of the title[/caption]

And if they are not careful, Michael van Gerwen, Peter Wright...