MBE pair Luke Littler and Luke Humphries warned they won't be treated like royalty at World Cup of Darts - Daily Record

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German duo Ricardo Pietreczko and Martin Schindler are gunning for the hot favourites in Frankfurt

German duo Ricardo Pietreczko and Martin Schindler have warned England's MBE heroes they won't be treated like royalty in Frankfurt.

The home pair are gunning for the World Cup of Darts hot favourites in Saturday's mammoth last 16 clash in their own country.

Luke Humphries and Luke Littler go into the tournament having been recognised in the King's Birthday Honours for their contribution to the sport of darts.

However, with Littler having previously had issues with whistling German crowds and vowing earlier this year never to return to Germany in a social-media outburst, the Frankfurt fans are ready to crank up the heat.

Pietreczko said: "I think it was a very funny game against both Lukes, because Luke Littler says never come back to Germany."

Schindler added: "I think the fans are going to play a major role in that. If we are going to play against bigger nations, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Netherlands or whoever, there are so many good names in it right now.

"I think this probably is the best World Cup to be in and we are very happy about the support we are getting from the fans."

Humphries and Littler are flying going into it with Cool Hand saying: "I'm extremely honoured and delighted to be receiving an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours for services to darts.

"To be recognised by the King for what I have achieved, and also for my contribution to playing in and promoting the sport that I love, is something that I never thought possible, but I'm very grateful that it has become a reality.

"I have enjoyed the highest of highs in darts in becoming World No.1 and winning the biggest tournaments that the game has to offer, but to be awarded the MBE will rank alongside any of those achievements.

"I have to give a massive thanks to my fiance Kayley, and my family, particularly my mum and dad, who have been a constant source of support over the years and helped make me the person that I am today.

"To say that I'm looking forward to visiting Buckingham Palace is an understatement. To receive the MBE there with my family with me is something that I'll cherish for the rest of my life.

"I'll continue to be a good ambassador for darts and help pave the way for future generations to be involved and succeed in a sport that has given so much to me."

Littler added: "This is an amazing and unexpected honour but one which I am very grateful for.

"To receive a recognition like this is something I had never thought would be possible, and it is a proud moment.

"It's unbelievable what I've done for my sport, I'm happy, my family is happy and I can't wait to receive it.

"Congratulations to Luke Humphries on receiving an MBE too.

"He's a fantastic ambassador for darts and although he's a rival, I can't wait to partner him in the World Cup this weekend."