''It's where I first began my journey" - Luke Humphries set for nostalgic return to Exeter

The Premier League Darts is visiting Exeter, England, on Thursday night. Luke Humphries is playing a full Premier League this year for the first time, but has been able to play in Exeter twice in the past.

During the 2019 and 2020 Premier League editions, "challengers" were used. Emerging talents and local stars who were allowed into action on a one night only basis during those Premier Leagues. Humphries was then invited to the round of play in Exeter each time.

''Being back in Exeter brings back some nostalgic vibes for me,'' Humphries said on pdc.tv. ''It's where I first began my journey of playing in big TV tournaments, and little did I know that four years later I'd be playing in the Premier League as the World Champion!"

After the first four rounds of play, Humphries holds the fifth spot in the Premier League. Thanks to six 100+ averages, Humphries has the highest tournament average of any competitor, but a weekly title is still missing. "My performances have been good, and if I keep playing that way, I believe the wins and nightly victories will come. I've just got to keep the faith and make sure I keep working hard.''

On Thursday night, Humphries faces Premier League frontrunner Michael van Gerwen. "Michael is going to be full of confidence and he'll want to break the record of winning four consecutive nights, but he has got to lose at some point, and I'm hoping its tomorrow!" Concludes the current world number one. "It is up to me to stop him, but I feel my game is in a good place and I'm really looking forward to the challenge."