'There are a lot of new names but they deserve it' - Michael van Gerwen speaks about new additions to Premier League

Michael van Gerwen spoke after his Premier League victory over Rob Cross on the opening night in Dublin. 'Mighty Mike' spoke in particular about the new names to the lineup and admitted it's fun to face new names. He also gave Whitlock a warning that there is a long way to go despite a brilliant first win for the Wizard.

"There are a lot of new names but they deserve it," Van Gerwen said. "People need to fight hard if they want to get back into the Premier League. There are so many good players standing up who want to be in the top four. "It is still fun but it's totally different because we're used to Adrian Lewis making fun of everyone!" He then spoke about Whitlock and admitted while he deserves to be in and he had a good win that there is still a long way to go. "It's only one game. Don't get me wrong, Simon is a good player and on results, he deserves to be in," Van Gerwen said. "He had a phenomenal game and, with this win, he leaves bad feelings behind him. It will give him great confidence. There is a long way to go."

Photo: Lawrence Lustig/PDC