Mark Ferguson reports on an exciting appearance from the tungsten star…
Darts fans in London are set for a treat as former world champion Michael van Gerwen will be making an appearance at The Valley for the Charlton Masters.
The current world number one will take to the oche at the home of Charlton Athletic to headline a four-player tournament on July 2.
Speaking to Charlton’s official website, it is clear that van Gerwen is looking forward to returning to Charlton and is hoping to entertain the crowd.
He said: “I was really pleased when I heard I would be playing the Charlton Masters again. I really enjoyed the event last year.
“The crowd were fantastic and we had lots of fun so I’m sure it will be just as good, if not even better this time around.
“Over the last year, my game has continued to improve and I have consolidated my place as number one in the world so I am looking forward to showing the Charlton fans what I can do again.”
Van Gerwen will be taking on former Premier League participant and world championship finalist Andy Hamilton, darts legend Bobby George and Andy Jenkins. Local players will also be presented with the opportunity to challenge the professionals.
The last time van Gerwen played at the Charlton Masters he had just got his hands on the biggest trophy in darts for the very first time as he lifted the PDC Darts World Championship.
The Dutchman may have lost his crown to Gary Anderson in this year’s world championship, but his response has been magnificent.
Since that crushing semi-final defeat to Anderson, van Gerwen has been in tremendous form, producing some stunning performances in this year’s Premier League.
Sitting comfortably at the top of the table, van Gerwen has already secured his place in finals night at the 02 Arena and has to be favourite to take the prize come May 21.