Anderson on preparation going into Champions League of Darts title defence: 'I'm struggling a bit but I'm getting there'

Gary Anderson will defend his Champions League of Darts title this weekend and ahead of the tournament beginning he spoke about his preparation coming into the event.

Anderson admitted that it's getting back slowly but surely and that he is seeing the difference even though it's been harder than he thought.

'The Flying Scotsman' added that he believes it should be a cracking tournament and that he hopes one of the players hits a nine darter to trigger the £100,000 bonus for the crowd.

'I'm struggling a bit but I'm getting there, it's coming back slowly but I'm seeing difference in my throw everyday even though it's taking longer than I expected,' said Anderson to DartsNews.com.

'I'm having some good legs and some bad legs, I don't know if it's a lack of concentration or what but that's something I'm trying to teach myself again so it's been a bit harder than I thought.'

'It should be a cracking tournament, the boys are playing well, well seven of them but it'll be a good one. Paddy Power have stuck up the money for the nine darter so hopefully one of the boys will net one.'

Rivalry with Michael van Gerwen

Anderson will take on Michael van Gerwen once again over the course of the weekend and for him, he believes taking on MVG could spark him into life after previous signs his game is coming back in the World Series.

'I like playing Michael, he's just not quite playing the Gary he's used to playing. Saying that I've played him a few times this year in the World Series, he's only been beating me 8-6, but there are signs it is coming back.'

'The way I'm playing Michael is favourite but once I get on that stage and I see him, that's the rivalry we've got.'

All the afternoon's play will be live on BBC One - click here for the full weekend TV schedule.