Michael van Gerwen names player who would have made Premier League Darts stronger
Luke Humphries coasted to victory in the first night of the new Premier League Darts season, beating Chris Dobey in the final after overcoming Michael van Gerwen in the semis
Michael van Gerwen believes the Premier League Darts lineup 'could have been stronger' and that Michael Smith should not have been dropped.
Smith was one of two players axed from last year's eight-man lineup, with 'Bully Boy' and Peter Wright replaced by Stephen Bunting and Chris Dobey. There was also some controversy over the absence of Jonny Clayton, Dave Chisnall and Damon Heta, who are all ranked in the top eight.
"It's an incredibly difficult decision for the PDC to choose the lineup – I think they did well," Van Gerwen told BetMGM. "It's quite strong but it could have been a little bit stronger. I miss one good player – Michael Smith.
"But outside that, it's eight really good darts players and that's what people want to see. Moving forward we want to create an atmosphere, too. It's important to be a good player but it's also how you come on stage and the show you put on.
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He told Sky Sports earlier this month: "The biggest thing now is obviously being left out of the Premier League. That was the kick up the backside I needed. Especially after winning the worlds and then not doing what [2024 champion] Luke Humphries did - just going and keeping winning.
"I kind of took time away. I just wanted to enjoy myself as a world champion. And I think that has been my hindrance. Being left out the Premier League, it's time to work hard again."
Smith crashed out of the World Darts Championship in the second round after losing 3-2 to Kevin Doets and the 34-year-old has since revealed he has been suffering from arthritis in his throwing hand.
In a statement released on social media last month, Smith said: "Feels like this needed to be said as I'm annoyed seeing I'm finished or what's happening it's this or that. The last six weeks I've had grade two AC [acromioclavicular] shoulder injury and seeking physio every two-three days to help that but for three-four years I've been fighting something else.
"I broke both my wrists when I was 19 and now it's catching up with me and now suffering with arthritis to my right hand. This isn't sympathy or a cry for help. This is letting you all in to it. I've never given up or stopped from any pain.
"I played a world final with a broken hand. I made a UK Open final with a hole in my groin. I've won Pro Tours and Euros with problems with my ankle. What this statement means is this is me opening up and letting you all know. I didn't say earlier as I was scared of losing the Prem or losing World Series but I wasn't picked anyway so why not now."
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