Mark Allen inspired by recent world champions as he enjoys timely return to form

Mark Allen is determined to seek inspiration from recent Crucible champions as he looks to end a difficult season on a high by claiming the world snooker title for the first time.

The Antrim 39-year-old has slipped from first to eighth in the standings after failing to go beyond a ranking semi-final this season, but says he is brimming with confidence after completing a 10-6 win over Chinese qualifier Fan Zhengyi.

Both Kyren Wilson and Luca Brecel clinched their respective world titles having arrived in Sheffield on the back of below-par campaigns and, after reeling off four frames in a row to make victory over Fan a formality, Allen looks to be regaining his momentum at the right time.

THE PISTOL FIRES AT THE CRUCIBLE!