THE race for the eight-player field of the Darts Premier League could take a significant turn this week.
At the moment, Luke Littler is the runaway leader in the order of merit as the youngest world number one ever sits miles in front.
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Jonny Clayton has returned to form at just the right timeCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Fans will be gutted if Stephen Bunting doesn’t make the cut one way or anotherCredit: Getty
The next two players are former world champions Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen.
The fourth slot is where things get interesting and fan favourite Stephen Bunting looks like he will miss out.
The top four players automatically qualify for the Premier League. The remaining four spots are invitations from the PDC.
Bunting has recently been usurped by Jonny Clayton into fourth.
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It’s now a two-horse race for the fourth spot with, Clayton and Gian van Veen, depending on who wins the tournament or progresses the furthest.
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Clayton faces Ryan Searle in the last-16, Charlie Manby faces of with Van Veen in a mouth-watering tie.
Bunting and Josh Rock were also firmly in the running, but bother are now out.
Clayton, the Welsh No1, won the Premier League in 2021 and was a regular until a loss of form and passion following the death of his father.
Speaking after his last-32 victory over Niels Zonneveld, he said: “I’d be a liar to say I don’t want to be back in the Premier League. I love it.
“It’s the best tournament of all. But I’ve got to prove myself. I’ve had a few down years and my darts have to prove it.
“So, hopefully, I am going the right way and my name might be in the hat.
Van Veen looks a strong contender to go far but has a tough test awaiting himCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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“It’d be what it’d be. I ain’t going to try no different. I want to win this tournament, I’d like to go all the way, same as every other player.
“I’d like to go and lift that trophy, so that’s my aim. Who knows?”
Bunting was the highest seed to crash out of the Worlds early and will rely on gaining a wildcard entry to next season.
The full eight-man line-up will be announced in early January.
