'I am a winner; I don’t like losing': Michael van Gerwen believes he can win Matchplay number four

After an unconvincing victory over Raymond van Barneveld in the first round of the World Matchplay, Michael Van Gerwen believes “I have not got enough match rhythm, but my head is there, which is a good thing.”

Van Gerwen has won the title her in Blackpool an impressive three times and will be searching for number four. Standing in his way, high flying Josh Rock.

While Rock is on the rise, a recent struggle for MVG has seen his game take a slight decline.

“Darts doesn’t wait for anyone, not for me, not for Phil Taylor, not anyone.”

The Dutch superstar knows that if he is to progress to the next round, he is going to have to find some of his old form that saw him dominate the sport for over a decade.

“I am a winner. I don’t like losing, but hopefully this will be the start of something really nice.”

Michael has had some troubles away from the oche over recent months but admits “I feel more calm now,” having his daughter with him at the Matchplay.

A lot of players will use their time off to practice for their next game, most noticeably Jermaine Wattimena who has complained regarding the practice facilities in Blackpool.

For MVG it is a little different this time around “now we have a day off tomorrow, I can relax a little bit more, spend some time with my daughter — she’s here with me for the first time and I really enjoy that.”

This time spent with family is something that could boost the performance of MVG.

Following this time off, “It feels like you have to start from scratch, but I can handle it. I love what I do, I love performing”

“Sometimes I have to be patient with myself, but of course that’s difficult, because I know what I’m capable of.

Van Gerwen spoke about the length of the tournament stating “it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. You need to win more games at the highest level and then things will develop for myself. I know that.”

The upcoming game is set to be a challenge for both players, as they both look to prove to the fans and themselves that they are part of the elite group of players on tour.

“I’ve played against Michael on the big stage before, I’ve hit a nine darter against him: I’m up there trying my best to win a trophy and so is he.”

Speaking on the differences in experiences “He’s also won the World Matchplay three times, so he knows how to win, but I’m just looking forward to playing one of the best players in the world,” said Rock.

Both players are known for their high scoring ability, with Rock hitting a record nine 180s in the final of the World Cup, we can expect a game full of twists and turns alongside some world class scoring and finishing, The winner will progress into the Quarter finals later this week.