Blades on receiving advice from Van Gerwen during Super Series tie: "It was nice for somebody like that to say that"

Gary Blades earned a PDC Tour Card early last year and in 100th place currently, he realises the chances of retaining his Tour Card are very unlikely especially while not getting wins.

"The results obviously speak for themselves because I haven't won any games but I actually feel I'm playing better, I feel like I'm playing alright. I just feel like I need one win to just turn the luck around a little bit," said Blades to Tungsten Tales.

He discussed his Loxley stablemate Aaron Beeney and how he has semi changed it around and also the confidence that has brought him to improve.

"I mean Aaron's a perfect example of what can happen. He's got a positive mindset because he's winning games. Losing gets to be a habit, same as winning gets to be a habit. I just need to turn it around."

He faced Michael van Gerwen during Super Series in Germany and he spoke on advice he gave him.

"He just said I'm a good player that I need to not beat myself when I have a bad score. It was nice for somebody like that to say that, just gotta keep going and keep improving."

As well as the Loxley Darts deal and how he is hoping that can also give him a boost going forward.

"They sent me the prototype for the Robin back in December to try because I'd bought a set of Aaron Beeney darts and obviously they'd seen my name and contacted me. They're really nice darts, they've decided to sponsor me for the rest of the year so I'm hoping that it'll give me the confidence boost."

But like alluded to, he is under no illusion at the task at hand and is currently thinking ahead to Q-School.

"It is about Q-School, it is about getting myself playing well in the back end of the year ready for Q-School. Obviously if I was to keep it great but to do that, I'm going to have to qualify for the World Championship and get through a few rounds. It's unlikely. I just want to try and enjoy the next six months."