Phil Taylor has urged Luke Littler to step away from social media and dedicate more time to training as the teenager prepares for tonight's Premier League fixture in Liverpool.
The former world champion believes the 19-year-old's online activity is only antagonising spectators further following recent hostile receptions.
"He needs to get off social media put that phone down and just don't keep posting things as a reaction," Taylor said on the Double Tops podcast.
The darts legend, who employs others to manage his own social accounts, suggested the Warrington player should spend his energy in the practice room rather than engaging with critics online.
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Littler has faced jeers from crowds during his previous two Premier League appearances, a situation that began after his confrontation with Dutch player Gian van Veen at the Manchester event three weeks ago.
The teenager's dispute with Van Veen appears to have turned sections of the audience against him, with supporters voicing their disapproval when he takes to the oche.
Taylor maintains that Littler's continued presence on social media platforms is provoking fans even more, suggesting the young star is inadvertently fuelling the negative atmosphere.
Phil Taylor has urged Luke Littler to step away from social media and dedicate more time to training as the teenager prepares for tonight's Premier League fixture in Liverpool
|PA
"I was always told, 'whatever you do, don't have an opinion on social media'. What I'm trying to say is you can't win on there, so don't try to," Taylor explained.
Taylor also questioned Littler's commitment to preparation, revealing that the youngster barely trains despite his remarkable natural ability.
"He needs to practise more; he literally does not practise," Taylor stated.
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Five things to know about Luke Littler | PAThe 16-time world champion recounted an exhibition event where he witnessed Littler glued to his mobile device for approximately two and a half hours while opponent Luke Humphries worked intensively on his game beforehand.
When Taylor enquired whether Littler intended to warm up, the teenager simply declined.
"I asked him if he was going to practise and he went, 'nah'. He then goes and beats Humphries 8-1!" Taylor recalled, describing the result as seemingly "impossible".
Despite the teenager's extraordinary talent, Taylor believes the hostile crowd reaction has begun to affect his performances since the Van Veen incident.
"It does seem to have had an impact because he isn't playing as well," he observed.
Luke Littler came under heavy fire from fans in Rotterdam last week after his spat with Gian van Veen
| REUTERS"Eventually it will stop but I think, at the moment, the thing I'd say to Luke is just go and play out of your skin.
"If you do that, the crowd will turn and be back on your side."
Littler currently sits second in the Premier League table, having amassed 24 points so far.
Jonny Clayton occupies first, however, while Gerwyn Price and Michael van Gerwen complete the top four.