Luke Littler sets record straight on break-up with girlfriend Eloise Milburn with strongly-worded Instagram message

Luke Littler has released a statement on Instagram following reports that he has broken up with his girlfriend Eloise Milburn.

The pair began their relationship last year after meeting during a PDC Development Tour event in Leicester back in August.

Milburn was regularly seen at Alexandra Palace during Littler's run to the World Championship final, where he lost 7-4 to Luke Humphries.

The Sun claimed on Thursday evening that the pair had broken up, with a source stating to the outlet that it 'had become increasingly difficult for them to spend quality time together' due to Littler's demanding schedule on the professional darts circuit.

The source added that 'calling time on their relationship seemed to be the only way forward' and that 'there is no bad blood between them and Eloise is completely supportive of Luke's career'.

Following the reports, Milburn has received abuse on her social media platforms - with Littler being forced to take to Instagram and set the record straight to his 1.4 million followers.

He wrote: "Everyone needs to stop sending hate towards Eloise saying it's her fault and this and that, I myself split up with Eloise and everyone just needs [to] give us some time, no need for everyone to message her and give her grief."

@lukethenukelittler/Instagram

On the oche, Littler was in action on Monday in a 10-6 defeat to Michael van Gerwen at the World Matchplay in Blackpool.

The 17-year-old won the Polish Darts Masters last month, beating Rob Cross in the final.

Littler, who now holds a world ranking of 25 (prior to the Matchplay getting underway), has also won two European Tour events this season, and lifted the opening Players Championship title of the season back in February.

'The Nuke' also won the Premier League at his maiden attempt, defeating Luke Humphries in the final in a reversal of their World Championship clash.