Clayton looks ahead to Premier League Cardiff homecoming: "That will make all my dreams come true"

Jonny Clayton showed resolve and grit to see off Dimitri van den Bergh in a 10-9 victory and kick off his Masters campaign.

Clayton spoke afterwards and was glad to get over the line against a quality operator in Van den Bergh.

"I played Dimitri, he's a great player. I thought it was a good game so glad to get over the line," said Clayton post match.

He is set to return home to Cardiff next week for the Premier League as defending champion and it is a moment he can't wait for.

"That will make all my dreams come true. To be home in Wales and to be announced as defending champion is fantastic."

The Masters spurned it all and he hopes to add even more titles this year.

"To be introduced today as any defending champion it is fantastic."

"Hopefully it sparks five TV titles but whatever happens happens. I don't think that far ahead."

Another accolade was Fans and Players' Player of the Year and it is not an award he expected despite his stellar year.

"It's absolutely fantastic, I didn't expect it. I knew I was in with a chance to get it but thank you to everyone. The Fans' Player of the Year it shows I've got a good following and that I've done something right in darts."