Aspinall looks for improvement ahead of Van Gerwen clash: "I've got to work on the start of my game"

Nathan Aspinall came through a real thriller against Gary Anderson in the second round of the World Matchplay and now 'The Asp' has Michael van Gerwen firmly in his sights.

"Fantastic win for myself, I think the start of the game was so bad. I think we both showed each other too much respect. Both just couldn't get going," said Aspinall post match.

"I think after that second break we both kind of kicked in and I think the last eight or nine legs we both shown why were on that stage. I think it was a fantastic game at the end. What a result."

Improvement ahead of Van Gerwen

He is under no illusion though that he needs to improve when the tournament goes on but has some positives also to take away.

"If I play like I did those last nine, ten legs, I'll be hard to beat. Like I did in the first ten legs, I'll be going home Friday night so I think I've got to work on the start of my game."

Respect for Anderson

These improvements are easier to implement now he has faced Anderson with Aspinall saying it is the biggest test mentally out of the way.

"Playing Gary is tough for me, he's my idol. I've said it so many times. Everyone else I'm going to play now, I couldn't care less so I don't think I'll have that respect like I do with Gary on stage."